“The Wall Asisi Panorama” (Die Mauer) creates a hauntingly realistic artistic simulation of life in Berlin during the 1980s. Created by artist Yadegar Asisi, this 360-degree installation transports you back to a fictitious autumn day in the Kreuzberg district, directly facing the death strip. It is not a traditional museum but an immersive visual experience that captures the “normality” of living next to one of history’s most brutal borders.
What to expect
The centerpiece of the visit is a massive cylindrical rotunda housing a panoramic image that is 60 meters long and 15 meters high.
- The View: You will stand on a 4-meter-high visitor platform in the center of the room. From here, you look out over the Berlin Wall into the “death strip” and the grey reality of East Berlin beyond it.
- The Narrative: The panorama is packed with details. You will see border guards patrolling, children playing in the shadow of the wall in West Berlin, punks hanging out, and graffiti artists leaving their mark. It contrasts the colorful, chaotic life of the West with the sterile, dangerous border zone.
- Day & Night Cycle: The room features a simulated day and night cycle. Lighting changes gradually, and sound effects—like street noise, distant sirens, and music—add to the immersion.
- Photo Exhibition: Before entering the rotunda, you walk through a photo exhibition documenting the rise and fall of the Wall, featuring personal stories from contemporary witnesses.
Where to book tickets
- Online (Recommended): Booking via the official Asisi Panorama website is the best option. It allows you to select a specific time slot, which lets you skip the ticket line at the entrance.
- On-Site: You can buy tickets at the counter on Friedrichstraße. However, the venue is small and located near the busy Checkpoint Charlie, so lines can form during peak tourist hours (11 AM – 2 PM).
- Third-Party Platforms: Tickets are also available on platforms like GetYourGuide or Tiqets, which can be useful if you are booking multiple Berlin attractions at once.
Berlin Wall Asisi Panorama tickets
- Adults: Approximately €14.00.
- Reduced: Approximately €11.00. This generally applies to students, seniors, and people with disabilities (ID required).
- Children (6–16 years): Approximately €7.00.
- Children (Under 6): Free admission.
- Parent-Child Ticket: There is often a special family rate (approx. €35.00) covering 2 adults and up to 4 children.
- Berlin WelcomeCard: Holders typically receive a 25% discount on the standard adult price.
How to reach
The panorama is located at Friedrichstraße 205, 10117 Berlin, just a few steps away from Checkpoint Charlie.
- By U-Bahn (Subway): Take the U6 line to the Kochstraße / Checkpoint Charlie station. The panorama is less than a 2-minute walk from the exit.
- By Bus: The M29 bus stops at Kochstraße / Checkpoint Charlie. The popular sightseeing bus 200 also stops nearby at Stadtmitte (about a 5-8 minute walk).
- By Foot: If you are visiting the “Topography of Terror” or the “Mauermuseum,” the Asisi Panorama is within a 5-minute walking radius.
Opening hours of The Wall
- Daily: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM.
- Last Admission: 5:00 PM (one hour before closing).
- Holidays: The exhibition is open 365 days a year. However, hours may be reduced on Christmas Eve (Dec 24) and New Year’s Eve (Dec 31). Always check the official calendar for these specific dates.
How long does the tour take
Average Visit: Most visitors spend about 45 to 60 minutes.
Breakdown:
- 15 minutes for the introductory photo gallery.
- 30 minutes on the viewing platform to watch the full day-night cycle and observe the details.
- 15 minutes for the exit film/documentary about the artist.
Best time to visit Berlin’s Asisi Panorama The Wall
- Weekday Mornings: The best time is shortly after opening at 10:00 AM on a Tuesday or Wednesday. The platform can get crowded, and having fewer people allows you to move around the railing freely to see all angles.
- Lunchtime Lull: Sometimes there is a dip in crowds around 1:30 PM, as large tour groups head for lunch.
- Avoid: Weekends and holidays between 11:00 AM and 3:00 PM are the busiest times.
FAQs about The Wall – Asisi Panorama
1. Is the exhibition wheelchair accessible?
The entrance and the ground floor of the rotunda are wheelchair accessible. However, the 4-meter-high viewing platform does not have an elevator. Visitors with limited mobility can view the panorama from the ground floor, but they will not get the elevated perspective.
2. Are pets allowed?
No, dogs and other pets are not allowed inside. Exceptions are made for registered assistance dogs.
3. Is it suitable for children?
Yes. While the topic is serious, the visual nature of the panorama is engaging for children. It is less “dry” than a text-heavy history museum.
4. Can I take photos?
Yes, photography for private use is permitted. Flash and tripods are generally prohibited to avoid disturbing other visitors and ruining the lighting effects.
5. Are there guided tours?
Yes, the museum occasionally offers public guided tours (often English on Thursdays and German on Saturdays). You should check the website for the current schedule. There is also a free “visitor legend” (brochure) available at the entrance that explains the different scenes within the panorama.
