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Offered languages
- German
- English
Dive into the forgotten decade, when Saarbrücken was the melting pot of a radical geopolitical experiment. Between the ashes of the Second World War and the birth of the European Union, the Saarland was a quasi-independent state, torn between French ambitions, German identity, and the utopian dream of becoming the first truly "European" territory. Accompanied by historian Max and local Lucia, you decipher modernist messages, stand in squares where fierce referendums were held, and discover how a failed nation-state accidentally laid the foundation for modern Europe.
- 5.3 km self-guided tour with 6 stations over 132 min.
- Ideal for everyone interested in history & memory and power, protest & public space
Excitingly told in a podcast style by experts and locals
- Suitable audio content, AI guide, and navigation via the app
What's Included
Meeting and pickup
From Saarbrücken main station with local public transport towards Pingusson-Bau. From the nearest stop, it is a few minutes' walk to the Pingusson building, Hohenzollernstraße 60, Saarbrücken. Please check the current connection on the day of travel.
Walk from the EUROPA Gallery to the nearest stop and take local public transport back to Saarbrücken main station. The starting point is the EUROPA Gallery, Trierer Straße 1, Saarbrücken. Please check the current connection on the day of travel.
Itinerary
-
1
A striking modernist building that served as the French embassy and symbolizes France's diplomatic reach into the post-war Saarland.
10 minutes • Admission ticket free -
2
The seat of the autonomous Saarland parliament, where local politicians mastered the delicate balancing act between French demands and local wishes.
10 minutes • Admission ticket free -
3St. Johanner Markt
The bustling city square that became the epicenter of passionate and sometimes violent rallies during the 1955 referendum.
10 minutes • Admission ticket free -
4
A historic hall that served as the central polling place for the decisive Saar vote in 1935 and later as home to Radio Saarbrücken.
10 minutes • Admission ticket free -
5
A square dedicated to 'Joho', the idealistic prime minister who fought for the failed dream of a Europeanized Saarland.
10 minutes • Admission ticket free -
6
Originally the headquarters of the Saarland Mining Directorate, this building represents the coal wealth that drove the conflict and ultimately ignited the European Union.
10 minutes • Admission ticket free
Additional info
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Tags
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Cancellation Policy
- For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the experience’s start time.
- If you cancel less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
- Any changes made less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time will not be accepted.
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
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