Teufelsberg aka Devil’s Mountain was a former US listening station built by the National Security Agency during the Cold War days to listen on the Soviets actions and plans. The station was built on the “biggest mountain” in Berlin. After the fall of the wall the station was closed and abandoned to its current state today.
Teufelsberg is not close to the city center and is tucked away in the forest of Grünewald. Although its very easy to access the forest via S-Bahn or bike. Grünewald is usually packed by weekenders who want to get away from the city crowds and have a day out in the forest or the lake. The surroundings of Grünewald has a few lakes to offer for the more older people to relax. That said it is still not unusual to see young people mountain biking through the forest or relaxing on the beach. It is always a get away place for the nudist people as well. So dont be surprised if the person next to you takes off their clothes and lying down on the beach butt-naked.
How to get there
It is very easy to access Teufelsberg. Take the S-Bahn S7 to Wannsee direction or Bus M19 from Mehringdamm and get off at Grünewald Station and its a 20 mins walk from there. Since we had our bikes for the journey, it was much faster although you do have to walk up the hill for 5-7 minutes. Afterwards you will come across the famous gate to enter the abandoned site. Here is a map.
How to get in
Since there are private guided tours coming to the site, it is guarded by light security so that the “freeloaders” will not get in without paying for the tour. Although the guard at the gate told us to walk along the fence for 10-15 mins to see the tower from a distance. But I think he gave away a tip that if we walk along the fence it wouldnt be hard to see the hole in the fence and you can slip right through. Just be careful that the guards dont see you otherwise you might have to try again another day.
What you’ll see
After entering the site, its time to explore! There are a few buildings to go into but the most anticipated building is of course the dome tower. Over the years the site has been a home for explorers or people who want to see the view of Berlin over a beer. Also as you’ll see some pictures with the provided link below, there are many graffiti artists showing off their masterpiece that flourish the abandoned site. Going inside the domes and trying to climb to the top like Spiderman can be quite the challenge and the risk people seem to take. If your keen on going to the very top of the dome tower you have something waiting for you. There is only one small section open that allows some light into the dome. When I was there, their were two guys playing the guitar and I must say the acoustics from the dome was amazing. It could be something if you could bring all of your music equipments all the way up to give a concert.
Any Dangers
There are not many dangers around or in the site. Just use common sense and remind yourself that things can come down from the ceiling or you can fall through a hole in the floor if you be routey and stupid. But the site itself is quite safe and make sure not to be seen by the guards or try not to the use the elevator.
