The Dutch Flame

A Powerful Stop on Our Road Trip Through Eastern Germany: The Nuremberg Memorial

During our road trip through Eastern Germany, we deliberately chose to make a stop in Nuremberg. Not for its picturesque streets or culinary hotspots, but because of the immense historical weight this city carries. We wanted to visit the place where, in the aftermath of World War II, history was written—and where the foundations of international criminal law were laid: the Nuremberg Memorial.

A Relatively Unknown Place – but of Great Importance

In the Netherlands, the Memorium Nuremberg Trials is not widely known. Yet it is one of the most significant places when it comes to processing the legacy of the Second World War. Here, in Courtroom 600 of the Nuremberg Palace of Justice, political leaders stood trial for the first time in world history—for war crimes and crimes against humanity.

Hermann Göring, Rudolf Hess, Joachim von Ribbentrop—infamous figures from the Nazi regime—were held accountable here. The Nuremberg Trials laid the groundwork for what would later become the International Criminal Court in The Hague. A milestone in international law, and a powerful symbol of justice and responsibility.

When Past and Present Collide

What made this visit even more impactful for us was how relevant it felt today. Standing in the very courtroom where it all began, we couldn’t help but think of current global events. Of Ukraine. Of Russia. Of Israel and Gaza. Of leaders once again crossing international and moral boundaries. And of innocent civilians paying the price every day.

The Memorial is not just a museum about what was—it also holds up a mirror to what is still happening. It shows how vital it is that justice exists—and is enforced—even in a world that often feels chaotic or divided.

More Than History – A Lesson in Humanity

The museum is both moving and accessible. Through original documents, video material, and an excellent audio guide, you walk through the context, the trials, and their aftermath. What touched us most was standing in Courtroom 600 itself. The room looks much as it did back then—making the experience tangible. Almost palpable.

The Memorial invites reflection. Not only about the past, but also about your own values, about justice, about the fragility of peace—and what it means to take responsibility, both individually and as a society.

Why This Place Is Worth Visiting

The Nuremberg Memorial is not a lighthearted stop or a typical tourist attraction. It’s a place you choose—consciously. Because you want to understand, pause, and feel. It’s not a depressing experience, but rather one that gives hope. Because it shows that justice is possible. Even after total destruction.

We left Nuremberg deeply moved. Shaken, but also grateful that this place exists—as a remembrance, a warning, and a tribute to the power of law.

The City of Nuremberg Surprised Us

What we didn’t quite expect beforehand was that the city itself would leave such a beautiful impression as well. Before visiting the Memorial, we first walked toward the historic city center. It was immediately captivating: narrow alleys, timber-framed houses, ancient gates, and a stunning view over the Pegnitz River. Nuremberg feels steeped in history but radiates calm and charm.

After the museum, we continued our walk along the water and ended the day at a small riverside restaurant. The food was delicious, the atmosphere relaxed—exactly what we needed after such an intense and thought-provoking experience. That combination of historical depth and warm hospitality made Nuremberg an unexpected highlight of our trip.