The Leap - 1961

At around 4 p.m. on August 15, 1961, the riot policeman Conrad Schumann jumped over the barbed wire fence at the corner of Ruppiner-/Bernauer Straße into the western part of Berlin.

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History

In a captivating fusion of history and modern technology, the German Historical Museum (DHM) Berlin hosted the groundbreaking 360° virtual reality installation, "The LEAP – 1961," from January to April 2021. ALTHAFEN Real Estate GmbH proudly co-financed this immersive project, recognizing it as a successful example of a contemporary exploration of historical events.

This moment was captured by the young photographer Peter Leibing. The photo of the fleeing GDR border policeman Conrad Schumann from 1961 is considered an icon of the 20th century.ALTHAFEN Real Estate GmbH sponsored the project “The LEAP – 1961” as a successful example of a modern examination of current affairs.

History

The installation centres around a pivotal moment in history – at approximately 4 p.m. on August 15, 1961. In an act of defiance, Conrad Schumann leapt over the barbed wire fence at the intersection of Ruppiner-/Bernauer Straße, making his escape into the western part of Berlin.

This daring event was immortalized by the lens of young photographer Peter Leibing, creating an iconic photograph that would come to symbolize the tumultuous events of the 20th century.

Installation

Boris Hars-Tschachotin, the creative mind behind the virtual reality installation, skillfully transports viewers back in time, allowing them to relive the historic leap and witness the complexities of the era. The 360° format immerses spectators in the very essence of the event, providing a visceral understanding of the challenges faced during that tumultuous period.

Our involvement

Beyond its historical significance, "The LEAP – 1961" reflects ALTHAFEN Real Estate GmbH's dedication to supporting projects that foster cultural engagement and historical awareness.

By co-financing this virtual reality installation, the foundation actively participates in preserving our collective heritage and encourages innovative approaches to historical storytelling.

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Ghetto Classics

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Crossing Borders: Etty Hillesum and Edith Stein