When you visit the Dussmann das Kulturkaufhaus in Berlin, you will step back in time and immerse yourself in the rich history of the Berlin Wall. On the third floor of this celebrated cultural department store, you’ll find a distinctive piece of the Berlin Wall signed by former US President Ronald Reagan.
Which we guarantee is not something you see every day.
We found out about the Reagan Berlin Wall by accident. One time, years ago, we were killing time at Dussmann das Kulturkaufhaus on Friedrichstrasse, and we were not even sure what we were looking for. Still, we ended up finding this unusual piece of history.
Now, years later, we decided to share it with you.
The Tear Down This Wall! Speech
On a memorable Friday, June 12, 1987, Ronald Reagan and his wife arrived in Berlin, ready to make a profound impact. The couple was escorted to the Reichstag, where they stood on a balcony gazing upon the formidable Berlin Wall.
Shielded by two panes of bulletproof glass, Reagan delivered his historic speech at 2:00 p.m. before a captivated audience. Among those in attendance were esteemed figures such as West German President Richard von Weizsäcker, Chancellor Helmut Kohl, and West Berlin Mayor Eberhard Diepgen.
“We welcome change and openness; for we believe that freedom and security go together, that advancing human liberty can only strengthen the cause of world peace. There is one sign the Soviets can make that would be unmistakable, that would advance dramatically the cause of freedom and peace. General Secretary Gorbachev, if you seek peace, if you seek prosperity for the Soviet Union and Eastern Europe, if you seek liberalization: Come here to this gate! Mr. Gorbachev, open this gate! Mr. Gorbachev, tear down this wall!”
Ronald Reagan’s famous “Tear down this wall!” speech at the Berlin Wall in June 1987 left an indelible mark on history—even those who never visited Berlin and saw the Berlin Wall know about this speech. The world heard his words, which rang true to the desire for liberty and reconciliation.
Today, a tangible symbol of that iconic moment awaits you at Dussmann das Kulturkaufhaus.
Reagan’s Signature Piece of the Berlin Wall
The signed fragment of the Berlin Wall stands proudly on display, showcasing Reagan’s signature alongside a quote from his memorable speech. This brightly lit, interactive exhibit on the third floor captures the era’s essence through its informative content divided into five engaging categories.
In August 2015, a remarkable interactive exhibit at Dussmann das Kulturkaufhaus was opened to the public. Its addition has enhanced the visitor experience, providing more in-depth knowledge about the Berlin Wall. Interactive displays featuring historical facts, a guide to Berlin’s significant locations, and a street art gallery showcasing the East Side Gallery were added.
The Interactive Experience
Explore the exhibit’s immersive display as you embark on a journey through history.
- Die Grenze (The Border): A selection of photographs depicting the former East-West German border.
- Galerie (Gallery): Videos featuring Reagan’s speech, the Lichtgrenze, the 25th-anniversary celebrations, and the fall of the Wall.
- Die Mauer (The Wall): Fascinating facts and figures about the Berlin Wall.
- In Gedenken (In Memory): A tribute to the official victims of the Wall, commemorating their lives.
- Der Mauerstein: Photographs capturing the moment Reagan signed the wall.
Reagan’s Enduring Legacy
Ronald Reagan’s compelling speech calling for the end of the Cold War resonates to this day. The signed piece of the Berlin Wall is a powerful testament to his pivotal role in world history.
To catch a peek at the Berlin Wall fragment signed by Ronald Reagan, head to the third floor of Dussmann das Kulturkaufhaus on Friedrichstrasse in Berlin.
You can find the Reagan Berlin Wall positioned between the History and Computers sections. This unusual artifact invites you to connect with the past and witness a piece of history that shaped the world.
The Reagan Berlin Wall at Dussmann das Kulturkaufhaus
Friedrichstraße 90, 10117 Berlin
