At Rosenthaler Str. 39 in Berlin, this small museum preserves Otto Weidt’s former workshop, where he employed blind, visually impaired and deaf Jewish people during the Second World War. The displays tell how he tried to protect his workers from deportation, and follow the lives of the people connected to the workshop through photographs, biographies and interactive computer exhibits. Information is available in German and English. Admission is free, and the visit is a focused, moving look at individual acts of protection under Nazi rule.
The workshop and its workers
Otto Weidt ran a broom and brush workshop at this site during the Second World War. He employed Jewish people who were blind, visually impaired or deaf. The museum remains in the former workshop and tells the story of Weidt and the people who worked there.
The exhibition follows the threats facing Jewish workers under Nazi rule and Weidt’s attempts to protect them. It describes actions including hiding people in the workshop and providing help to workers who had been taken away. His efforts put him at personal risk.
Stories told through photographs and documents
Photographs and short biographies bring the workers’ lives into focus. The displays are in German and English, and interactive computer exhibits let you explore what happened to individual people connected to the workshop. The museum’s account centres on their experiences, not only on Weidt’s actions.
The subject is painful, but the exhibition is compact and specific. Set aside time to read the personal stories and pause with the details of the lives shaped by persecution and deportation.
Planning your visit
The museum is at Rosenthaler Str. 39, in an alleyway in Berlin. It has free admission, and advance tickets are recommended. A lift and accessible restroom are available. Parking nearby is limited, so public transport is a practical option.
There is no cafe inside. Cafes and bars nearby make it easy to find a place to pause after the visit.
Preguntas frecuentes
Is admission to Museum Blindenwerkstatt Otto Weidt free?
Yes. Admission is free, and advance tickets are recommended.
How long does a visit take?
Plan for about 30 to 60 minutes.
Are the exhibits available in English?
Yes. Exhibition information is available in German and English.
Is the museum wheelchair accessible?
A lift and an accessible restroom are available.
