This book takes the reader on a journey to one of the most beautiful parts of Germany – Berchtesgadener Land on the Obersalzberg. Tourist were being attracted by the stunning landscapes and rural charms of the area already in the 19th Century. Well situated members of society built luxurious summer residences and imposing villas in a region, that was originally formed and dominated by agriculture and farming. Those who could afford to, treated themselves to a holiday in the alpine idyll, in one of the many hotels, guesthouses or sanatoriums, escaping - albeit briefly - from the ever increasing noise of the growing cities. 

The impressive mountain backdrop also set the stage for legendary car races.

Hitler ́s arrival on the Obersalzberg in the 1930s, marked the start of many dramatic changes to the region. Second to Berlin, the Obersalzberg was to become a National Socialist centre of power. The rural charm of the region thus had to give way to the political spirit of the time. Houses were knocked down and residents forced to move. Construction works of a previously unknown extent completely changed the face of the Obersalzberg in a very short space of time. The governing elite commissioned the building of private houses representative of their political status. Administration buildings, barracks, bunker systems and a modern infrastructure were also built. Many of these were subsequently destroyed towards the end of World War II. 

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The pictures in this book, some of which extremely rare, others previously unpublished, offer unique impressions of a time in history, which was subject to massive changes. The 18 chapters are a result of many years of extensive and comprehensive research. 

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The historical knowledge, accompanied by the almost tangible photographs and documents, provides the chance to gain an insight into a tainted era in German history. Further more, the author is perhaps using the opportunity, to make us consider and reflect upon the transitory nature of our own actions and deeds.