In the criminal court of the Nuremberg Palace of Justice world history was written: On November 20, 1945 the trial against the "main war criminals" began in the criminal court, "Courtroom 600". 21 leading representatives of the National Socialist regime were made to answer for their crimes against peace and humanity. In October 1946, 11 months later, the sentences were pronounced. From 1946 to 1949 twelve Subsequent Proceedings were held before American military tribunals.

More than 60 years after the trials a permanent exhibition has been opened at the original site to provide relevant information on the background, proceedings and consequences: Explanations are given on the role of the defendants in the National Socialist power structure and the crimes they were accused of. Historic sound and film footage convey a vivid impression of the trials. The significance of the trials for the development of modern international criminal law made "Courtroom 600" world famous.

The "Nuremberg Principles" ensuing from the International Military Tribunal today form the basis for the International Criminal Court in The Hague. They illustrate how attitudes have changed since 1945/46 towards those responsible for the fortunes of the world’s nations and peoples.

Courtroom 600: Time Travel

We take you on a virtual journey through space and time: The media installation "Zeitreise Saal 600 | Courtroom 600: Time Travel" takes you back almost 80 years to the historic event of the Nuremberg Trials and lets you experience Courtroom 600 in a new way. More information

 

Key facts:

  • the main Nuremberg trial against major Nazi war criminals took place in Courtroom 600 and was in session 218 days
  • the trial had a significant influence on the development of international criminal law
  • the permanent exhibit in the Palace of Justice focuses on the background to, course of and legacy of the Nuremberg trials