Let's begin our journey with Germany's capital Berlin, a city that has witnessed the turbulent history of the 20th century. The first point on our map is the Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe, also known as the Holocaust-Mahnmal. This remarkable site, consisting of 2,711 concrete blocks of varying heights, stretches over an area of 19,000 square meters. Designed by American architect Peter Eisenman, the memorial opened in 2005 and has since become one of the most important memorials in Europe. Walking between the concrete stelae, visitors experience a feeling of confusion and uncertainty, which is meant to symbolize the suffering of Holocaust victims. The memorial is open 24 hours a day and admission is free, making it accessible to all.

Not far from the Monument to the Murdered Jews of Europe is another important memorial - the Memorial to May 10, 1933 Nazi Book Burning. This subtle but highly meaningful memorial commemorates an event in 1933 when the Nazis burned thousands of books deemed 'inappropriate.' The memorial takes the form of an empty library underground, which can be seen through a glass panel in the walkway. The site prompts reflection on the value of freedom of speech and the dangers of censorship.

Moving on to the eastern part of Berlin, you'll come across the impressive Memorial to Soviet Soldiers in Berlin, located in Treptower Park. This monumental complex, unveiled in 1949, commemorates the Red Army soldiers who fell in the battle for Berlin. The centerpiece of the monument is a 12-meter statue of a Soviet soldier holding a child and smashing a swastika with a sword. Surrounded by greenery, the park is not only a memorial, but also a popular recreational spot for Berliners.

Comparing the three sites, we can see differences in scale and form. The Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe is the most abstract and interactive, allowing visitors to have a personal experience and interpretation. The Memorial to May 10, 1933 Nazi Book Burning is the most subtle, but equally powerful in its message. The Memorial to Soviet Soldiers in Berlin, on the other hand, represents a more traditional form of monumental sculpture and architecture. Each of these sites offers a different experience and perspective on the tragic events of the 20th century, but all are equally important for understanding German and European history.

Continuing our journey, we move to the heart of Germany, where we will discover more fascinating non-religious places of worship. In Munich is the Denkmal für die Opfer der NS-Gewaltherrschaft, or Monument to the Victims of the Nazi Regime. This site, while less well-known than the Berlin memorials, has an equally powerful message. The centerpiece is the 'Eternal Flame,' which symbolizes the memory of the victims of Nazism. The monument, opened in 1985, is located where the Wittelsbach Palace, used by the Gestapo as a torture center, once stood. The site prompts reflection on the cruelty of totalitarian regimes and reminds us of the value of democracy and human rights.

Moving on to more positive aspects of German culture, we can't overlook the Johann Wolfgang Goethe Monument in Berlin. This impressive monument, located in the Tiergarten park, pays tribute to one of Germany's greatest poets and thinkers. The monument depicts Goethe in the pose of a thinker, surrounded by allegorical figures representing various fields of art and science. The site is not only important for lovers of literature, but is also a symbol of Germany's contribution to world culture.

For those who want to explore the topic of Berlin's monuments, we recommend a visit to the 'Unveiled, Berlin and its monuments' museum. This unique exhibition, located in the Spandau Citadel, presents the history of Berlin's monuments over the centuries. Here you can see original sculptures and fragments of monuments that once adorned the streets of Berlin and now tell the fascinating story of the city and its transformations. This place offers a unique look at how the symbols and ideals of German society have changed over the years.

By comparing these sites, we can see how diverse the forms of commemoration and celebration of history are in Germany. The Denkmal für die Opfer der NS-Gewaltherrschaft in Munich is a place of quiet contemplation and remembrance of the dark pages of history. The Goethe Monument in Berlin, on the other hand, celebrates the cultural and intellectual achievements of the German people. The 'Unveiled, Berlin and its monuments' museum, meanwhile, offers a broader look at the history of monuments and their importance in shaping national identity.

Each of these sites has its own unique atmosphere and message. The Denkmal für die Opfer der NS-Gewaltherrschaft can be an emotionally difficult experience, but it is extremely important for understanding German history. The Goethe Monument offers a more positive and inspiring experience, celebrating the greatness of the human spirit and creativity. The 'Unveiled, Berlin and its monuments' museum, on the other hand, is a fascinating journey through Berlin's history, ideal for history and art lovers.

It is worth noting that all of these places are easily accessible and usually free or offer very affordable admission prices. This makes them an excellent choice for travelers on a budget who want to explore Germany's history and culture.

In the last part of our trip, we will focus on sites that symbolize Germany's unity, hope and future. We will begin with the monumental Siegestor in Munich. This impressive triumphal gate, built in the mid-19th century, was originally intended to symbolize Bavarian military power. However, after the devastation of World War II, it was rebuilt as a symbol of peace, with the inscription 'Dedicated to victory, destroyed by war, calling for peace'. The Siegestor is not only a beautiful example of neoclassical architecture, but also a powerful symbol of Germany's transformation from militarism to pacifism.

We can't leave out the most famous symbol of Berlin and all of Germany - the Brandenburg Gate. This 18th-century masterpiece of neoclassical architecture survived the city's turbulent history and became a symbol of German unity after the fall of the Berlin Wall. The Brandenburg Gate is not only a popular tourist attraction, but also the site of important state ceremonies and demonstrations. Its significance extends far beyond Germany's borders, making it one of Europe's most recognizable symbols.

A lesser-known but equally fascinating site is Bethlehemkirchplatz in Berlin. This site commemorates a church destroyed during World War II, and its modern art installation in the form of a steel skeleton building provides an interesting contrast to the surrounding modern architecture. This site makes one reflect on the history of the city and its reconstruction after the war.

At the end of our trip, we will visit the remarkable Felsskulptur 'Monument for a Forgotten Future' in Gelsenkirchen. This intriguing installation, created by Swiss artist Roman Signers, consists of a huge boulder with mysterious music coming from inside. This site symbolizes the fusion of nature, art and technology, prompting visitors to reflect on the future and our place in the world.

By comparing these sites, we can see how diverse the forms of commemoration and expression of hope for the future are in Germany. The Siegestor and the Brandenburg Gate are classic, monumental structures that have taken on new meaning in the context of modern German history. Bethlehemkirchplatz and 'Monument for a Forgotten Future' represent a more modern, abstract approach to the art of remembrance and reflection on the future.

Each of these sites offers a different experience. The Siegestor and the Brandenburg Gate are impressive in their scale and historical significance, ideal for architecture and history buffs. Bethlehemkirchplatz is a more intimate place that encourages personal reflection. 'Monument for a Forgotten Future', on the other hand, offers a unique, multisensory experience, combining art, nature and sound.

In terms of accessibility, the Brandenburg Gate and Siegestor are easily accessible and free, making them ideal for travelers on a tight budget. Bethlehemkirchplatz also has no entrance fee. 'Monument for a Forgotten Future' may require a bit more planning to get to Gelsenkirchen, but the installation itself is available free of charge.

All in all, these sites show how Germany combines remembrance of the past with hope for the future. From classic monuments to modern art installations, each of these sites offers a unique perspective on German culture, history and identity. Whether you're a lover of history, art or simply looking for an inspiring experience, these non-religious places of worship are sure to leave an indelible impression on you and make you reflect on the past, present and future of Germany and Europe.