Stasi Museum

Overview

The Stasi Museum occupies the preserved headquarters of the East German Ministry for State Security (MfS) in Lichtenberg. The office of the feared Stasi chief Erich Mielke is maintained exactly as he left it in 1989.

Highlights

• Mielke's office: The Stasi chief's preserved workspace with wood panelling, secure phone lines, and personal effects.
• Surveillance technology: Original cameras, microphones, and steaming devices used to open citizens' mail.
• Interrogation rooms: Reconstructed prisoner interview spaces.

History

The MfS compound, with over 40 buildings, was the nerve centre of one of history's most pervasive surveillance states. After the Peaceful Revolution of 1989, citizens stormed the complex on 15 January 1990, securing files from destruction.

Visitor Tips

• Weekend hours: Extended to 20:00 on Saturday and Sunday.
• Combine with: The nearby Stasi Prison at Hohenschönhausen (separate site, regular tours).
• Duration: 1–1.5 hours.