Leipzig Forum of Contemporary History

The exhibition begins with the period after the Second World War, shows life in the GDR and takes you up to the present day in the Federal Republic of Germany: Why did the GDR come into being? Who was in power? How did people live, work, celebrate and argue? Why did the GDR fail? How has Germany grown together again since 1990? What questions and concerns concern people today?

The Monday demonstrations took place in Leipzig in the fall of 1989, a key step towards the end of the GDR. In our permanent exhibition at the historical site, we show the revolutionary upheavals in the GDR and Eastern Europe, as well as their impact on Europe and world politics. The successes and difficulties of growing together become clear from a variety of individual perspectives.

International terrorism, digitalization and the refugee crisis are further challenges that the reunified Germany is currently facing.

2,000 objects, photos and films illustrate the history of divided Germany and the time after reunification: the table of the SED Politburo is just as much a part of it as parts of the fence of the Prague Embassy of the Federal Republic of Germany. Contemporary witnesses share their experiences with you. Their individual stories show how political events affect people's lives. A video installation by artist Bettina Flitner depicts the hopes and concerns of people today and encourages discussion in the exhibition forum.

Numerous video and audio stations as well as interactive media encourage visitors to immerse themselves in the historical atmosphere and turn history into an experience for young and old alike.