What is so interesting about the EuroVelo 13 – Iron Curtain Trail

The Iron Curtain divided Western Europe, which embraced democracy and individual freedoms, from Eastern Europe, which adopted communist regimes under Soviet influence. The boundary was fortified by military presence, propaganda, and censorship, leading to significant geopolitical implications during the Cold War. Families were separated, the movement was restricted, and various alliances and defence pacts were established. The Iron Curtain fell in the late 1980s and early 1990s due to reforms in the Soviet Union and popular uprisings in Eastern Europe, leading to the reunification of Europe.

 

The cycling trail EuroVelo 13, also known as the Iron Curtain Trail, follows the path of the former Iron Curtain. It is a long-distance cycling route that spans over 10.000 km and passes through 20 countries. Along the EuroVelo 13 route, cyclists can encounter a wide range of attractions, including border crossings, museums, monuments, and remnants of the Iron Curtain such as watchtowers and barbed wire fences. The trail passes through scenic countryside, national parks, and urban areas, providing cyclists with a unique perspective on Europe’s past and present.

 

Things to see on the EuroVelo 13

 

Berlin Wall Memorial (Germany): Located in Berlin, this memorial site commemorates the division of the city during the Cold War. Visitors can explore the preserved segments of the Berlin Wall, the Documentation Center, and the outdoor exhibition that provides insights into the history of the wall and its impact on Berliners.

Iron Curtain Museum (Czech Republic): Located in Cizov, this museum is housed in a former border patrol building and offers exhibitions on the history of the Iron Curtain in Czechoslovakia. Visitors can learn about the border fortifications, surveillance methods, and escape attempts during the Cold War era.

Sopron (Hungary): This picturesque town near the Austrian border played a significant role during the Pan-European Picnic in 1989, a pivotal event that led to the opening of the Iron Curtain. Visitors can explore the historic city centre, including the Firewatch Tower and the Goat Church as well as cycle to the the Iron Curtain Trail memorial site in Hegykő.

Bratislava Castle (Slovakia): Situated on a hill overlooking the Danube River, Bratislava Castle is a prominent landmark in the Slovak capital. Visitors can tour the castle grounds, visit the exhibitions on Slovak history and archaeology, and enjoy panoramic views of the city.

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