Our Lady’s History students visit Berlin

Early last Tuesday morning a group of fifty-seven senior History students from Our Lady's Secondary School, accompanied by their teachers, Mr. O’Boyle, Ms. Sheridan, Mr. Lyons, Mr. Dorris, Ms. Brennan and Deputy Principal Ms. Treanor, set off to the historical German city of Berlin. The trip gave the students a wonderful opportunity of bringing their Leaving Certificate History syllabus to life. After arriving on Tuesday morning, the students took part in a guided walking and bus tour of Berlin, taking in the political, economic and social history of the city including features such as the Brandenburg Gate, Holocaust Memorial, Berlin Wall and a visit to the former site of Hitler’s bunker. Next up, the students had the opportunity to get into the festive spirit with a visit to the world-renowned Berlin Christmas markets at Potsdamer Platz as well as relaxing with some ice skating in the outdoor skating arenas. Later that evening, the students had the opportunity to visit the German Parliament headquarters at the Reichstag and take in some of the spectacular views of the city from the buildings iconic roof terrace and glass dome.

This was followed on Wednesday with an eagerly anticipated visit to Sachsenhausen Concentration Camp which was used by Hitler and the Nazi’s during World War 2. The students were treated to an excellent tour of the camp and its role during World War 2. Next up was a visit to the famous Checkpoint Charlie museum and was followed by a visit to the former headquarters of the SS located at the Topography of Terror.

Thursday began with a bus out to our last guided tour of the trip with a visit to the Stasi Prison. This was used for holding political prisoners during the Cold War period. From there it was onto to the Olympic Stadium, site of the famous 1936 Olympic Games where the great Jesse Owens won four gold medals. The students marvelled at the magnificent architecture and history of this famous stadium. That evening students took a trip up the famous Berlin TV tower followed by some time at the Alexander Platz Christmas Markets.

Before flying out on Friday evening students visited the DDR Museum and the Holocaust Memorial. They were then given one last chance to visit the Christmas Markets and the famous Berlin Mall. The group arrived home safely to Castleblayney with many interesting facts and additional knowledge that can be put to good use in the months ahead as well as many treasured memories that will last a lifetime.

Caption: Pictured at the famed Olympiastadion in Berlin are Senior History & German students from Our Lady’s Castleblayney, who accompanied by 5 of their teachers enjoyed an action-packed tour to the historical city of Berlin where their Leaving Cert History course was brought to life