Going back in history

Today, we visited the Obersalzberg area best known for the site of Adolf Hitlers mountain retreat Berghof and the Eagles Nest (Kehlsteinhaus). Berghof was Hitler's holiday home, and other than his headquarters in East Prussia, he spent most of his time here. It was damaged during the war and demolished in April 1952 to prevent it from becoming a neo-Nazi shrine. Eagles nest is over 1800m above sea level and was used for some diplomatic functions and meetings. Hitler visited it about 14 times. The views are simply amazing, and a photographic exhibition provides some insight into its construction and purpose. The most sobering part of the day was the visit to Obersalzburg Documentation Centre. A permanent exhibition (Idyll and Atrocity) contrasts the idyllic life of the area and the mass murder/ crimes planned here. Personal stories illustrate how people in the area were forced to sell their property or have it expropriated in order for Hitler to create his second seat of government. The invasions on Hungary and Poland were planned here as was the extermination of the mentally/physically challenged and those of Jewish faith. One can walk through the extensive bunker system. It was looted and vandalized when the war ended. Very sensitive subject but exceptionally well curated and much to reflect on. We headed home via Koningsee - Germanys 3rd deepest lake. It is flanked by mountains (as high as 2700m) on either side. Definitely, a popular tourist site and very beautiful, especially with the autumn colours.Leggi altro