Gleis 17 Memorial
About
The Gleis 17 Memorial, located at Am Bahnhof Grunewald in Berlin’s Charlottenburg‑Wilmersdorf district, stands as a solemn reminder of the tragic deportations that took place from 1941 until the end of World War II. The memorial traces the dates, numbers, and destinations of the 35 trains that ferried over 50,000 Jewish citizens to ghettos and concentration camps such as Auschwitz, Theresienstadt, and Litzmannstadt. Designed by Polish artist Karol Broniatowski, the installation features etched silhouettes on a concrete wall that mark each transport, with a plaque at the entrance detailing the station’s history. Visitors walk along the former freight yard, reflecting on the names and numbers embedded in the stones while learning about the broader context of the Holocaust in Berlin. The site is free to enter, making it accessible to all who wish to pay their respects and educate themselves about this dark chapter of history. Beyond its historical significance, the memorial offers a quiet, contemplative environment that encourages reflection. The architecture integrates the station’s existing gates and railway motifs, linking the memorial to its functional past. The surrounding greenery and quiet platform create a stark contrast to the bustling city, providing space for personal remembrance and contemplation. Educational programs and guided tours are often available through the National Holocaust Museum, allowing schools and groups to explore the connections between Berlin’s past and the present. Because the memorial is close to the S‑bahn Grünewald, it can be easily reached by public transport, and visitors can combine a transit visit with the nearby Berlin-Grunewald station, which remains a key S-Bahn hub today. Overall, the Gleis 17 Memorial serves as an essential pilgrimage site for students, researchers, families, and anyone interested in understanding the scale of victimization that took place in Berlin during the Holocaust.
Highlights
- Concrete Silhouette Panels
- Historical Transport Dates Display
- Memorial Plaques
Must-See Areas
Good to Know
Good for
Best time to visit
Spring and early autumn offer milder temperatures and fewer crowds, ideal for reflection without the bustle of summer tourism.
At a glance
- Typical visit: about 2 hours