"Childhood Memories: Life Along the Wall" at the Brandenburg Gate

Conversation with an Eyewitness: 65 Years Since the Construction of the Berlin Wall

What did the construction of the Wall mean for those who experienced it firsthand? How did they perceive August 13, 1961? And what specific consequences did the Berlin Wall have for them? At the Brandenburg Gate, eyewitnesses share insights into their personal memories—from the first days of the Wall’s construction to the opening of the border in November 1989. Their accounts offer different perspectives on the division of Germany: from a child’s perspective and journalistic observations to experiences of repression in the GDR and stories of escape. These memories make it clear that while the Berlin Wall served a clear political function, it held different meanings for people and shaped their lives in many ways.

Martin Cartolano-Löffler was born in East Berlin and spent his childhood near the border area of Bernauer Straße at Anklamer Straße 55/56. He recalls his daily walks along the Wall and the stories told by the adults.

This event is part of the special program marking the 65th anniversary of the construction of the Berlin Wall.
Funded by the Federal Commissioner for Culture and the Media and the LOTTO Foundation Berlin

More information: mauerbau65.berlinTranslated with DeepL

Meeting point: Platz des 18. März at the Brandenburg Gate, 10117 Berlin

Next date:

• Date Sunday, 16/August/2026 17:30 bis 18:00
• Venue Podest am Brandenburger Tor
• Address Platz des 18. März am Brandenburger Tor, 10117 Berlin