The Berlin-Hohenschönhausen Memorial is a powerful reminder of the dark history of political persecution in East Germany. Located in the former Stasi prison, the memorial offers an authentic glimpse into the conditions faced by political prisoners during the Soviet occupation and the GDR era. The site was used as a central custodial prison by the Ministry for State Security (Stasi) from 1951 until 1989, where thousands of political detainees—including almost every famous GDR dissident—were incarcerated.

A visit to the memorial includes a guided tour of the preserved prison facilities, with large parts of the building left intact to give a true impression of the life of prisoners. The permanent exhibition, titled 'Incarcerated in Hohenschönhausen – Witnesses of Political Persecution,' displays photographs, prison clothing, letters, and other artifacts that help illustrate the grim reality of detention. A special exhibition titled 'Stasi in Berlin' provides further insights into the extensive surveillance practices of the Stasi, not only in East Berlin but also in the western part of the city.

Tours are particularly moving when led by former inmates who share personal stories of their time in the prison. These authentic accounts add a deeply human perspective to the history of repression, making the visit a poignant experience for visitors. The memorial also offers educational programs for schools, including seminars and project days to help students better understand the legacy of the SED dictatorship.

The memorial is open daily from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM, with tours starting every hour from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM. It is recommended to book guided tours in advance due to high demand.