This challenge is for Explorers, Time Travellers, Artists and Nature Lovers alike. You'll find yourself atop the central communications tower of an old spy station, a unique location that was once used to intercept Soviet communications during the Cold War, and now serves as an artist's playground and museum.
1. Find the Distinctive White “Spy” Domes on the Hill!
The first step of your challenge is to locate the abandoned spy station in the Grunewald forest. Depending on how good you are at orienteering, it might not be the easiest place to find. But don't worry, we'll give you a clue: the closest S-Bahn station is Heerstraße. From there, it will take you about 30 minutes on foot to reach Teufelsberg. Even though we may joke about Berlin having no hills, this one definitely makes up for it. Give yourself time to hike to the top. Keep your eyes and ears open and get ready for the hike!
2. Enter the Street Art Gallery!
To access the spy station, you have to enter the Street Art Museum (admission fee required, but it is so worthwhile as you will see some incredible artworks there!). Do check their website for opening hours and tours. These are not your average walking tours! The tours are run by locals who will take you on a journey through the site where actual spies worked day in and day out to intercept important information during the Cold War.
3. Make Your Sound!
Now for the most exciting part. At the end of the tour, you'll be invited to climb the inner staircase to the top of the last intact radar dome of the spy station. Once you reach the top, have some fun with the acoustics. You'll never hear a sound quite like it! Try and see how long you can make an echo of your voice last. The challenge here is to create the most unique sound in the dome. Experiment with your voice and share the sound you create with us using the hashtag #AbandonedSpyStationChallenge and #ucberlin. We can't wait to hear what you come up with!
