In the GDR, even reading the wrong book could be considered a crime. Yet underground papers (samizdat), smuggled books, and even disguised writings circulated to hide precious free thoughts from the eyes of the authorities.
Image gallery
On the occasion of Berlin Freedom Week, the Memorial Library in Honor of the Victims of Communism (founded as a collection of books banned in the GDR) opens its doors and presents its special holdings. From illegal underground leaflets from the early days of the GDR to opposition writings hidden inside Lenin volumes or self-glorifying testimonies of socialism — the exhibition offers a fascinating insight into forbidden reading under dictatorship.
The guided tour is conducted in German.
Admission free.
Led by: Max Remke, historian and political scientist, director of the Memorial Library.
#berlinfreedomweek
Additional information
Dates
November 2025
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