Searching for clues at Anhalter Bahnhof: the Nature Campus delves into history
History came alive for the children of the Nature Campus: Together with dedicated parents and chaperones, they made their way to Anhalter Bahnhof – one of Berlin’s most important historical sites. The excursion was not only an exciting change of perspective, but also part of the preparation for a very special event: our big celebration to commemorate the end of the Second World War.
Three perspectives – one place steeped in history
The day began with three individually organised guided tours – led by Uli, Elo and Katharina. Each of the parents set their own focus so that the children could experience the site from different perspectives: from the architecture and the role of the railway station under National Socialism to its significance as a symbol of new beginnings and change.
With a great deal of empathy and knowledge, the guides not only conveyed facts, but also aroused questions, thoughtfulness and curiosity – in line with our educational work at the Nature Campus.
What the railway station must have felt like back then…
A particularly impressive part of the tour was imagining what the Anhalter Bahnhof might have sounded and smelled like when it opened in 1880. The clacking of suitcases on the stone floor, the hissing of the steam locomotives, the babble of voices under the enormous dome. Add to this the smell of freshly baked bread mixed with smoke and perfume – all of this made the past seem like the past.
Remembering together, shaping together
The visit to Anhalter Bahnhof showed us how important it is to understand the past in order to consciously shape the present. The experiences of the day not only prepared the children for the upcoming festival in terms of content, but also emotionally. A big thank you goes to the parents who put their heart and soul into making this trip possible.
We look forward to incorporating the insights and impressions from this day into our joint celebration – as a symbol of peace, community and remembering our history.
