Thematic Tour with Eyewitness Talk on the History of the Venerological Station Leipzig-Thonberg

Closed venerological stations, colloquially known as "clap castles," were located in almost every district of the GDR. Often founded as early as the Soviet occupation zone, sexually transmitted diseases were to be treated here. However, the reasons for admission and statistics show that the stations served a different purpose. The goal of forced admissions was usually not medical treatment, but the discipline and punishment of women, especially young women, whose behavior did not correspond to the "socialist personality." The affected individuals were locked up there for several weeks behind barred doors and windows. Under duress, they had to undergo daily gynecological swabs, thus becoming victims of sexualized violence. To this day, few affected individuals have spoken about their experiences – not infrequently, persistent feelings of shame and guilt, as well as the fear of stigmatization, make this difficult for them.

There was also a closed venerological station at Riebeckstraße 63 in the southeast of Leipzig. With a theme-specific guided tour, we want to make this history and the history of the discipline of women and girls in the GDR visible. Afterwards, there will be a conversation with an eyewitness who will provide insights into her experiences.

Participation is free of charge and possible without prior registration.