The Reichsparteitagsgelaende (Party Rally Grounds) is a 4-square-mile (11-square-kilometer) estate that was the political and propaganda nexus for the Nazi Party. This immense area southeast of Nuremberg acted as a symbol for the power of National Socialism during the party’s reign and contains formidable examples of Nazi architecture. Explore the grounds that were intended to be an imposing backdrop for Nazi rallies, which drew a million attendees annually between 1933 and 1938. Peruse the historical markers dotted throughout the grounds to learn about the events that occurred on this site.
A good place to begin your walking tour of the Reichsparteitagsgelaende is at the Documentation Center (Dokumentationszentrum or Dokuzentrum). This museum and archive within the colossal building of the former Congress Hall contains a range of exhibits detailing the history of National Socialism and the terror and propaganda of the Nazi Party’s reign. Directly behind the hall is the large Volksfestplatz square, which was used for public rallies and political announcements. Continue down the adjoining street and enjoy views of the lakes on either side, known as Silbersee and Dutzendteich.
As you explore the 940-acre (380-hectare) estate, you’ll find tall stainless steel markers at more than 20 different locations throughout the grounds. These large panels, designed with the collaborated efforts of the Chinese architect Xiaotian Li and the Nuremberg artist Christof Popp, contain informational displays that help interpret the sites.
Learn about the use of the site before 1933, as well as how it functioned during the Nazi Party’s control until 1945. You can also find out what happened to the estate after World War II.
Visit other sites within the Reichsparteitagsgelaende, including the Zeppelinfeld and the Luitpoldhain, both now used for concerts. Signposts present information in both English and German. Admission to the Reichsparteitagsgelaende includes entry to the museum and archive center. The site is open daily, except select holidays. For an additional fee, purchase your ticket to the Reichsparteitagsgelaende as a 1-day ticket that provides access to all of Nuremberg’s municipal museums.
