My grandfather was eager to visit the Olympic Stadium. A sports aficionado, he could vividly recall the historic events of the 1936 Olympics and Jesse Owens’ gold medals. It was built to host the Berlin Olympics and honor the Third Reich. Like many structures in Germany, the Olympic Stadium was reconstructed as it sustained significant damage during WWII. All of the structures were designed to honor the Third Reich and the Fuhrer. Its monuments highlighted the accomplishments of German athletes beginning in the late 1800s and throughout the 20th century.
Ironically, as you enter the stadium, the first pillar honors two Jewish gymnasts who won medals in 1896. Both of these young men perished in an extermination camp during the war. Like many German structures, this is grand in its physicality and impact.
Engraved on the wall are the names of the winners of the events of the 1936 Olympics. My grandfather was thrilled to see Jesse Owens’ name permanently displayed. Interestingly, they have removed any references to Adolf Hitler. The viewing box has been dismantled and his name and those of his associates have been eliminated from the victors wall. I have conflicted feelings about this. Emotionally I can understand the significance of the memory but from a historical perspective I wonder if it is wise to eradicate evidence of their existence. It was a despicable regime and their actions were malignant. There are no words to describe the total devastation that they inflicted on humankind. Only time will tell if this decision will prevent further acts of discrimination
Comments OffTags: Art History, Germany, psychology