Berlin candle walk

Walking on the thin Line of Memory - a symbolic highline at the heart of Berlin

80 years after the end of World War II, Alexander Schulz walked a highline across Rosa-Luxemburg square in Berlin. From the roof of the Babylon cinema to the Volksbühne, he crossed 100 meters in the air, holding a burning candle.

This wasn’t just a normal Slackline Show.
It was a symbolic Highline.
A quiet tribute.
A reminder.
A quiet gesture of remembrance.

For the millions who lost their lives, and for those still suffering from war and injustice today.

The small flame Alex carried stood for the peace that still remains, and for how fragile it is. In times of rising populism, war close to our homes, and growing threats to democracy, this walk became more than a balancing act. It became a symbol.

The location gave this moment more meaning.
Rosa-Luxemburg square, named after the socialist and anti-war activist murdered in 1919, has long been a space for political and cultural reflection.
The walk began at the Babylon cinema, one of Berlin’s oldest movie theaters from the 1920s, still in operation today.
It ended at the Volksbühne, one of Europe’s most iconic theaters, known for its political engagement and experimental approach.

Photographer: Tim Trozska

The setup of this symbolic Slackline was a real challenge. There was no proper anchor on the roof of Babylon, so large wood beams had to be carried up narrow stairwells. When they turned out to be too short, Alex and Lukas built an A-frame out of leftover wood right there on the roof.

As Alex stepped onto the line, the square below was already filled. Dozens became hundreds and there was a lot of tension in the air. Halfway through, people started calling his name. Alex didn’t fall. At one point, he turned around. Then he paused briefly to sit and regain his balance. Calm and focused, he finished the walk and bowed quietly.

Let’s protect what matters.
Let’s not forget.

Let’s stand for our shared values, for Democracy and for Europe!

Alex Schulz