Berlin from below
Below the busy streets of Berlin lies a network of tunnels, shelters, and vast concrete spaces that tell the city’s story of conflict and survival. Guided tours lead visitors through World War II bunkers, towering flak tower remains, and Cold War civil defense shelters, revealing a hidden layer of history beneath the modern capital.
World War II Bunkers
These underground bunkers were built to shield civilians during air raids. Many rooms still show original wall markings, emergency instructions, and traces of daily life in wartime. Guides explain how the spaces were organized, how people sought protection, and how the infrastructure functioned under pressure.
Flak Towers and Their Legacy
Flak towers were massive anti-aircraft structures designed to defend the city from bombers. While most towers were partly demolished after the war, their remains and associated underground areas reveal the scale of Berlin’s wartime defenses. Tours often focus on engineering details, the role of the towers in the air war, and their impact on the urban landscape.
Cold War Defense Shelters
With the city at the frontline of East and West, Berlin expanded its network of civil defense shelters during the Cold War. These sites illustrate how emergency plans evolved, from filtration systems and blast doors to provisions meant to support large numbers of people. Exhibits and explanations shed light on everyday preparedness in an era of tension.
What to Expect on a Tour
Visitors typically walk through dim corridors and compact rooms while guides share historical context and personal stories collected over decades. Lighting is low, temperatures are cool, and some areas have uneven floors, adding to the atmosphere of authenticity. Photography rules vary by site, and access may depend on safety and preservation needs.
Practical Information
Tours run at scheduled times and often require advance booking. Some are offered in multiple languages, and routes can change depending on restoration work. Comfortable shoes and warm layers are recommended for the underground climate. Meeting points are usually near central U-Bahn stations, making the sites easy to reach.
