Palace of Tears

Explore the history of divided Germany in audio commentaries, a video & a quiz.

The Foundation Haus der Geschichte presents this App for the permanent exhibition at “Tränenpalast”, “the Palace of Tears”, the former departure hall at Friedrichstraße station for travellers from East to West. This is where people directly experienced how strong an impact the division of Germany had on their personal lives. The exhibition “Border Experiences. Everyday Life in Divided Germany”, which the Foundation has created at the original location on a site measuring 550 m2, opened in September 2011.

The App contains far more than just visitor information. It offers various ways of exploring the history of divided Germany. With the game “Crossing the border via the Palace of Tears”, you can find out what it was like to cross from East to West through the “Palace of Tears”. You have to navigate five stops before you can board the train to the West, if all goes well. The App also contains the audio guide to the exhibition and can be used directly in the “Palace of Tears”. In 17 commentaries, exhibition designers and contemporary witnesses recount stories of everyday life at the former border crossing point. They speak about uncertainty, controls and smuggling at the border checkpoints as well as the history of divided Germany up to reunification. A short film about the “Palace of Tears” gives an impression of the historical location. The App is designed to whet your appetite for a visit and can be used both at home and in the exhibition.

This App for iPhones and iPods offers:

- a short film about the exhibition “Border Experiences. Everyday Life in Divided Germany”

- the game “Crossing the border via the Palace of Tears”, which shows you who was allowed to travel from East to West and under what circumstances

- the audio guide to the exhibition with 17 lively commentaries and interviews with contemporary witnesses

- information for visitors to the “Palace of Tears”, opening hours, contact and travel details

- social media links

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