During February half term, I was lucky enough to join a group of fellow Senior School students on a Discovery Destinations trip with the History department to Berlin. The itinerary took us to many of Berlin’s key cultural and historical landmarks, including the Reichstag, and an exploration of Berlin under both the Nazi and Communist regimes.

On our second day we visited Sachsenhausen, a former Nazi concentration camp, where we took a poignant tour of the extermination and torture facilities. It was a very moving experience and being there you could really appreciate the enormity of the history that took place in Germany and wider Europe in World War II.   

On the third day, we focused more on the legacy of Communism across Berlin, visiting the remains of the Berlin Wall and the accompanying museum. My favourite part of the trip was a visit to the Stasi prison, where people were held under Soviet rule for breaking the law, criticising the regime or trying to start an uprising.  

Other sites on our itinerary included the Reichstag Dome, the DDR Museum, Brandenburg Gate and the Memorials of Sinti and Roma of Europe. It was fascinating to explore the rich layers of history that Berlin has to offer; our trip was thought-provoking, but also fun. It was also lovely to see Berlin in the snow and to enjoy some German culture, including stopping off to enjoy some culinary treats such as apple strudel and apple berliners (donuts)! 

All in all, a hugely memorable trip. 

Written by Stella, Year 12