Hitler wax figure unveiled in Berlin amid criticism

By Madeline Chambers

BERLIN (Reuters) - Berlin's new waxwork museum on Thursday unveiled a figure of a glum-looking Adolf Hitler in a mock bunker during the last days of his life, an exhibit that has been criticized as in bad taste.

The row over the figure overshadowed the media preview of the new branch of Madame Tussauds which opens its doors to the public on Saturday.

Critics say it is inappropriate to display the Nazi dictator, who started World War Two and ordered the extermination of Europe's Jews, in a museum alongside celebrities, pop stars, world statesmen and sporting heroes.

"Of course the figure will arouse interest but we hope people will realize he is part of an exhibition with a range of attractions," said Meike Schulze, head of Midway Attractions in Germany which is responsible for Madame Tussauds here.

"It will be a shame if he dominates everything."

Her plea appeared to be falling on deaf ears.

About 200 reporters and cameramen all but ignored U.S. President George W. Bush, German Chancellor Angela Merkel, plus the likes of Beethoven, Albert Einstein, Madonna and Brad Pitt.

Instead, they pushed and jostled to peer into a dark corner where the unmistakable figure of Hitler is seated.