Locker rooms in the stadium
Constructed for the 1936 Summer Olympics, the Olympiastadion in Berlin was the largest stadium in the world when it was built. This gigantic 100,000 seat stadium was Hitler’s showcase to the world and he wanted to be take seriously. Built on the western end of the east-west axis of ‘Germania’, it is still a building to be reckoned with.
The front gate features a huge Olympic symbol hanging from two towers and the rear of the stadium opens up with the Glockturm clock tower in full view. The Glockturm was destroyed by allied bombing, but was subsequently rebuilt. The original bell with a swastika (hackenkreuz) on it fell to the bottom and survived, and is now on display next to the stadium. The huge complex includes several swimming pools, a Waldbühne Greek-style amphitheatre, among other sports facilities.
Original bell in the clock tower
I joined a guided tour of the facility where we were allowed into the locker rooms, sauna, and press area of the stadium. Although you’re not allowed to step onto the pristine field of freshly cut grass, you can, however touch it with your hands if the tour guide is looking away. If you want to see the place in action fear not, there are regular sports events and concerts hosted by the stadium.
