Former East German Stasi Museum

　　The former East German Stasi Museum was originally Building 1 at the heart of the massive building complex that once housed the headquarters of the East German Ministry for State Security. It is situated at 103 Ruschestraße, east of Alexanderplatz, and forms part of an expansive gray complex of buildings. The 49 structures form a neat, enclosed rectangle resembling high walls, with no clear signage, and Building 1 is located right at the center.

　　This museum was established in 1990 by civil rights activists of the time who were committed to creating a space dedicated to collecting, preserving, restoring, and researching materials related to the East German regime. Visitors can learn about the work of the secret police and their opponents from 1945 to 1989 in the history exhibition hall, and see the former office and workspace of Erich Mielke, the last Minister of State Security. The exhibition is divided into three parts: surveillance, repression, and espionage. The displays mainly feature items and technologies used for spying and surveillance, such as specially designed cameras, telephones, watches, and other espionage equipment.

　　Stasimuseum Berlin Reason to visit: The only museum in Berlin dedicated to the former East German Ministry for State Security Continent: Europe [Europe] Country/Region: Germany [Germany] Province/State: Berlin [Berlin] City: Berlin [Berlin]