Historian Explores 250 'Sites of Remembrance' of German Unity

Lena Ens, a dedicated historian, has explored 250 'sites of remembrance of German unity' across Germany. Her journey reveals a diverse range of memorials, from somber stones to creative installations, each telling a unique story of the country's reunification.

Ens' travels took her to East German memorials like the Zeitgeschichtliches Forum in Leipzig, which focuses on the lived experience of the peaceful revolution of 1989 and the division and reunification. In contrast, West German sites such as the Cologne NS Documentation Center or the German Historical Museum in Berlin address broader themes of German history, including democracy and peace since 1945, but do not specifically emphasize East German experiences or the events of 1989.

The memorials vary in form and atmosphere. Some, like the one in Bad Doberan commemorating Mikhail Gorbachev, are simple stones. Others, like the sculptures of US presidents Ronald Reagan and George H.W. Bush in Berlin, are more elaborate. Artists Dagmar Korintenberg and Wolf Kipper's installation in Waren/Müritz reflects the demands of DDR citizens during the fall of 1989, showcasing the creativity possible in memorial design.

As early as October 2, 1990, numerous memorials were established to mark Germany's reunification. Anne Kaminsky, chair of the Federal Foundation for the Reappraisal of the SED Dictatorship, notes the variety and diversity of these memorials, highlighting their importance in preserving Germany's history.

Lena Ens' book, 'Places of Remembrance for German Unity', serves as a comprehensive guide to these memorials, ensuring that the stories they tell are not forgotten. The diversity of these sites reflects the complex nature of German reunification, offering a rich tapestry of remembrance for future generations.