The National Socialism Documentation Center of the City of Cologne is housed in EL-DE Haus, the former Gestapo headquarters at Appellhofplatz 23-25. Its permanent exhibition traces political and social life in Cologne under Nazi rule, using photographs, documents, films and other historical material. The basement prison cells remain in place, with inscriptions left by prisoners on the walls. Seeing them brings the history inside the building into sharp focus. Set aside several hours, and consider an audio guide if you need English explanations.
The history of EL-DE Haus
EL-DE Haus served as the Cologne Gestapo headquarters from December 1935 to March 1945. The building’s basement held prison cells. Today, the National Socialism Documentation Center uses the site to document Nazi rule in Cologne and to remember those persecuted by the regime.
The prison area became a memorial in 1981. The documentation center was founded in 1987. Its location gives the history a direct connection to the building where people were imprisoned, rather than presenting the subject only through material gathered elsewhere.
Cologne under National Socialism
The permanent exhibition, titled “Cologne under National Socialism”, covers political and social life in the city during the Nazi period. Historical documents, newspaper articles, photographs, film footage and statistics help explain how the regime affected Cologne and its people.
Media stations include historical films and interviews with contemporary witnesses. The exhibition also addresses resistance and people who tried to oppose the Nazis. Its modern layout includes QR codes for additional information, while quizzes are available through the center’s website.
The basement prison memorial
In the basement, preserved cells and inscriptions on the walls give visitors a view of the building’s use as a prison. The writings left by prisoners are a particularly stark part of the memorial. The cells are a central part of the visit, but their setting and subject matter can be emotionally difficult.
Allow several hours for the exhibitions and basement levels. An audio guide is available for €2 and includes English explanations. Some exhibition text is not in English, so the guide can help provide context as you move through the displays. A quieter visit can give you more time to reflect on the material.
Perguntas frequentes
How long should I spend at the National Socialism Documentation Center?
Plan for at least 3 to 4 hours to explore the exhibitions and basement levels.
Is there an English audio guide?
Yes. An English audio guide is available for €2. Some of the exhibition text is not in English.
What is in the basement of EL-DE Haus?
The basement includes preserved prison cells and inscriptions left by prisoners on the walls.
What does the permanent exhibition cover?
“Cologne under National Socialism” documents political and social life in Cologne during the Nazi period, including resistance.
