The German Minister for Culture and Media, Wolfram Weimer, has cautioned against allowing the Alternative for Germany (AfD) and other nationalist groups to dominate key sites of German history. Addressing the “ntv Salon” podcast, Weimer expressed concern regarding the increasing utilization of historically significant locations by the AfD, citing the Hambacher Schloss in Rhineland-Palatinate as a prime example. He emphasized that these locations rightly belong to the broader society and must be actively embraced by the community.
Weimer’s concern extends beyond Hambacher Schloss, also highlighting the Hermannsdenkmal monument in the Teutoburg Forest. He stated that the AfD is increasingly attempting to claim ownership of the monument, presenting the Cherusker leader Arminius – the figure the monument commemorates – as a national hero. The Minister suggested a broader interpretation of Arminius, drawing parallels to the folk hero Robin Hood, arguing that allowing the AfD’s nationalist framing to prevail risks losing a valuable piece of German heritage.
The warning follows a series of rallies and political actions surrounding the Hermannsdenkmal, most recently marked by AfD campaign advertising featuring an image of the monument. The AfD’s use of the image, accompanied by the slogan “I would vote AfD” intensified the debate surrounding the monument’s significance and its potential for political manipulation. Weimer stressed the importance of actively engaging with and redefining the narratives associated with these historical landmarks to ensure they remain accessible and relevant to the entire German public, rather than being appropriated by specific political factions.
