When going to Berlin you might already know something about the history of this city and how it works or rather survived through some difficult periods. Another interesting test, with relevance to B, is the ghost stations – stations that are no longer active but are still present in Berlin today.

What are Ghost Stations?

In this study ghost stations within the context of Berlin means station that were used sometimes or certain parts useless temporarily or permanently for several reasons such as political changes or reforms in the subway stations or constructing changes or shifts in borders. They are passive, preserved as they were left standing and in most cases they are closed to the public. They are good source of memories of the early years of the city following civil disorders.

List of Ghost Stations in Berlin

Let’s explore some notable examples of ghost stations in Berlin:

1. Nordbahnhof

Nordbahnhof in the Mitte district is among the most famous so called ‘ghost stations’ in Berlin. This station was shut down in 1961 when the Wall dividing East and West Berlin was built, and it became an isolated station in the death strip. It held the status of a closed station which was for decades without a door number till the Berlin wall came crashing down in 1989. Today, Nordbahnhof is a museum, telling the stories connected with division of Berlin.

2. Wittenbergplatz

Wittenberg również, located in Schöneberg district is also classified as a Ghost Station and has its own history as well. During the World War II, the station had got badly razed and closed from operational activities. It reopened for some time although it was closed again later after some risks with structures were identified. Wittenbergplatz is still vacant, and yet the station proved to be more than beneficial as it created an eerie mystical feel around the underground system of Berlin.

The Ghost Stations Today

While many ghost stations in Berlin remain inaccessible to the public, there are a few ways to catch a glimpse of these intriguing remnants of history:

1. Guided Tours

Several organizations are able to provide tourists with knowledgeable guided tours of Berlin’s ghost stations. These tours give a more detailed view on what the city used to look like and why these stations were vacated.

2. Virtual Reality Experiences

Some VR allow one to feel the experience of Berlin more personally, if one cannot physically travel to the place- experience ghost stations. These experiences offer realistic vision and understanding of the stations as they used to be; history in the making the use of technology.

Conclusion

The half-built stations of Berlin throw a fascinating light on Germans’ past, and also, quite understandably, on their history. Historic and now closed stations give a possibility to observe the difficulties and redevelopment of Berlin during several years. Even if you take it up in guided tours or travelling in virtual reality, to explore these parts of the magnificent transport network and learning about them makes your understanding of this dynamic city all the more richer.