The Stasi Museum occupies House 1 of the former headquarters of the GDR Ministry for State Security in Lichtenberg, built in 1960/61 as the official seat of Stasi chief Erich Mielke. Opened in 1990 by the civil-rights association ASTAK, it tells how the "Shield and Sword of the Party" was built up, how it operated and who worked for it. The permanent exhibition "State Security in the SED Dictatorship" draws on Stasi files, photos and surveillance gear, and its centrepiece is Mielke's own office suite, preserved almost exactly as he left it.
Visitor Information
- How much does Stasi Museum cost?
- Standard adult admission to Stasi Museum is €12. Prices for special exhibitions and timed-entry slots may differ.
- What are the opening hours of Stasi Museum?
- Stasi Museum is open Mon-Fri 10:00-18:00; Sat, Sun and public holidays 11:00-18:00. Public guided tours Mon-Sat in German at 13:00 and English at 15:00.. Holiday hours can vary, so check the museum's website before you go.
- Where is Stasi Museum?
- Stasi Museum is located at Normannenstraße 20, Haus 1, 10365 Berlin, in the Lichtenberg area of Berlin. The nearest stations are Magdalenenstraße (U5), Frankfurter Allee (S+U).
- What can I see at Stasi Museum?
- Erich Mielke's preserved offices inside the former Stasi headquarters, with files, bugs and hidden cameras of East Germany's secret police. Current highlights include State Security in the SED Dictatorship, Erich Mielke's Offices.
- Do I need to book Stasi Museum in advance?
- Booking ahead is recommended, especially for weekends, school holidays, and special exhibitions. Tickets are normally on the museum's website, and a pre-booked timed slot helps you avoid queues at the entrance.
- When is the best time to visit Stasi Museum?
- Weekday mornings shortly after opening are typically the quietest, especially mid-week. Late afternoons can also be calmer. Weekends, school holidays, and the lunch rush are the busiest periods.