Jaunted

When the Iron Curtain fell there was a debate about whether to wipe away the landmarks of Communist domination. European countries generally decided to keep the guard towers and fence posts so future generations could get a sense of the era. They've all but completely replaced the barbed wire with historical markers and the old ditches with rehabilitated trails, but what's left is haunting enough.

Making your way along the Trail is a surreal experience. At one point there's a sign that reads "Good Day, Dear Guest: You Are Standing Exactly on the Border of What Was, Until 1990, Divided Germany." At another sits a museum where the testimonials of more than 8,000 East Germans are recorded, recounting their experiences of being displaced on suspicion of capitalist sympathies. This is not a light jaunt through the woods. Serious historians and photographers, though, will undoubtedly be eager to view what's been preserved.

And now - since it's Monday and we can't close on a depressing note like that - here you go:

[Photo: New York Times]

Related Stories:
· Biking the Iron Curtain Trail [New York Times]
· History Travel Coverage [Jaunted]
· Europe Travel Guide [Jaunted]