Willy Brandt: Traveling exhibition in Vienna opens its doors!

Willy Brandt: Traveling exhibition in Vienna opens its doors!

An exciting traveling exhibition is currently being shown in Vienna in honor of Willy Brandt, the first social democratic chancellor of the Federal Republic of Germany. This exhibition is a very special highlight and gives visitors the opportunity to immerse themselves in Brandt's political and social work. The initiative goes back to former Federal President Heinz Fischer, and the exhibition can be seen in the VHS Kulturgarage in Seestadt Aspern until July 4, 2025. Admission is free and promises to be an interesting experience for all history buffs. W24 reports that the exhibition is the last stop on a tour that has already stopped in 19 German cities.

Willy Brandt, who was Chancellor from 1969 to 1974, not only shaped Germany but also the international community with his policies. His time as governing mayor of Berlin from 1957 to 1966, which was marked by the Wall and the division of Germany, was particularly formative. We still feel the effects of these events today and are a central theme of the exhibition. Mayor Michael Ludwig, Heinz Fischer and former Bundestag President Wolfgang Thierse were among those present at the opening ceremonies, who honored Brandt's legacy.

A look into the past

Brandt is often seen as a Nazi opponent and a champion of democracy and human rights. His famous speech on November 10, 1989 in front of the Schöneberg town hall makes it clear why he is a central figure in German history. In this speech he describes the moment of reunification as a “beautiful day after a long journey” and emphasizes that this day represents a stopover. This shows how moving the reunification was for people who had often been separated for years. Many families finally found each other again and it is described how, for example, police officers from East and West were able to shake hands - a symbolic act of unity. bpb explains that in his speech, Brandt formulated a clear vision for the future of Germany.

He reflects on the changes and explains that the Germans have to face historical challenges and that the division goes against the grain of history. Brandt praised the popular movement in the GDR, which advocated for change and a right to information. His message was clear: the voices of the people must be heard in free elections, and there was a need not to rely on old slogans but to take active action.

A legacy for the future

The exhibition not only offers a look back at Brandt's life, but also connects the historical events with current questions about democracy and social responsibility. The traveling exhibition in Vienna is not only a homage to Brandt, but also challenges us to think about the current challenges and how we can address them.

Anyone who would like to delve deeper into the history can expect further interesting information about the exhibition in the new episode of “On the Road with Mayor Michael Ludwig” from June 12th. It remains to be hoped that many Viennese and visitors will not miss this opportunity and take a look at history.