Cross of merit for Dietmar Arnold: A look at Berlin's hidden treasures

Cross of merit for Dietmar Arnold: A look at Berlin's hidden treasures

Rotes Rathaus, Berlin, Deutschland - On June 13, 2025, the Governing Mayor of Berlin, Kai Wegner, will be awarded a special citizen in the office of the Red City Hall. Dietmar Arnold, the chairman of the "Berlin Unterwelten" association and recognized city and regional planners, is honored with the Cross of Merit on the ribbon of the Order of Merit of the Federal Republic of Germany. This award is presented on behalf of the Federal President and is recognized for Arnold's outstanding services to preserving the historical identity of Berlin and his tireless efforts in monument protection.

Dietmar Arnold's commitment to the “Berlin Unterwelten” association enables interested to gain fascinating insights into the underground world of the capital. His work includes the rescue and access to "Lost Places" such as bunker systems and escape tunnels. A significant part of his work lies in the promotion of monument protection and historical research, for which he received the monument protection award "silver hemisphere" in 2006, together with his brother Ingmar. Since 2018, Arnold has also been the bearer of the Order of Merit of the State of Berlin, which is awarded by the Senate and stands for excellent services to the city of Berlin.

The value of Lost Places

The exploration of abandoned places, known as Urban Exploring, is enjoying growing popularity. Through platforms such as YouTube, Reddit and Tiktok, the activity has gained awareness. In Berlin, numerous “Lost Places” are marketed for tourism, but the legality of entering such places raises questions. As a rule, Urban Exploring is not illegal, but entering private property without permission can be considered a trespass. Access to legal Lost Places in Berlin is challenging because many of these places have either been renovated or demolished, as reported.

are among the few legal lost places in Berlin:

• Teufelsberg : former listening station, open for tourism. Admission: € 7 (5 € for students).
• flakturm Humboldthain : Guided tours of the Berlin Unterwelten. Ticket prices: 15 € for a small tour, 52 € for a big tour.
• Checkpoint Bravo : former border crossing, today with history and remains.

In the area of ​​Berlin, there are also some historical places to be found that can be explored, such as the Beelitz Heilstätten or the Döberitz military training area. In addition, there are numerous free places that can no longer be visited, such as the Spreepark Berlin or the abandoned Iraqi message, whose renovation is planned.

honor and tradition

The Order of Merit of the State of Berlin is awarded in a class and symbolically contributes to the recognition of citizens who have made a contribution to the city. The right of proposal for the award lies with the Governing Mayor, but members of the Senate and the President of the House of Representatives can also provide suggestions. The order is awarded annually on October 1, the anniversary of the Berlin constitution of 1950. In addition, every excellent receives a certificate with the large service seal of the State of Berlin.

With the upcoming award of the Order of Merit to Dietmar Arnold, another chapter is written in the history of appreciation of commitment to the city and its monument protection. His passion and commitment to the cultural identity of Berlin are indispensable building blocks for the future of the city and its historical sites.