Culture Train: A Journey of Unity and Music
On Sept. 24, 2026, in a train carriage en route to Berlin, vibrant melodies filled the air as the Warsaw Dance Combo performed amid a captivating ambiance. The carriage, lacking traditional seats and adorned with wicker material reminiscent of tangled vines, became a haven for cultural expression through music.
The Culture Train, established in 2016, aimed to foster cross-cultural connections by running weekend routes between Berlin and Wrocław. Initially expected to last a few months, it extended nearly 10 years, primarily disrupted by the COVID-19 pandemic. With around 130,000 riders experiencing its charm, the service temporarily halted in 2025 due to funding issues. However, it has resumed funding from both German and Polish authorities for a limited run connecting Berlin to Warsaw.
Each journey, lasting five and a half hours, is packed with performances and workshops, including cooking and singing classes to blend German and Polish cultures seamlessly.
Highlights of the Journey
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Performances and Community: Passengers enjoyed live folk music and had the opportunity to participate in group activities under the guidance of conductor Grzegorz Wierus, who led a heartfelt rendition of Beethoven’s “Ode to Joy,” emphasizing the essence of human connection.
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Cultivating Unity: Oliver Spatz, the organizer of the Culture Train, highlighted the initiative’s goal of countering historical misunderstandings between Germans and Poles, often fueled by dated stereotypes.
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Personal Stories: Passengers like Emilia Kurpiela, who has ridden the train multiple times, shared experiences of prejudice and the hope that such cultural exchanges could reshape perceptions of Poland as modern rather than merely post-Soviet.
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Solidarity in Crisis: In response to the Ukrainian refugee crisis after Russia’s invasion in 2022, the Culture Train adapted its mission, enabling transport for thousands of displaced individuals.
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Future Prospects: While the current run is set to conclude on Oct. 10, Spatz remains hopeful for the Culture Train’s return, advocating for openness and cultural exchange as vital components of Europe’s identity.
In essence, the Culture Train fosters a unique blend of music, art, and community, serving as a beacon of hope and intercultural understanding across borders.
