Introduction
A walking tour of the Olympic Stadium is a must do in Berlin if you’re visiting Berlin and are a fan of sports or history. In Berlin’s very own Olympic history this iconic venue played host to the 1936 Summer Olympics. In this blog post we are going to cover the rich history of the stadium, architectural marvels and key highlights that one can experience on one’s visit.
1. The Architecture
A superb representation of Nazi era architecture, the Olympic Stadium (as designed by Werner March) would be the literal embodiment of the phrase ‘when in Rome, do as the Romans do.’ The imposing facade, its distinctive horseshoe shape, reflects the grandeur and power of the Third Reich. The capacity of over 74,000 spectators is supported by a symmetrical design that provides excellent sightlines from every seat.
While we’re there, indulge in the beautiful stone columns, the Olympic Bell Tower and then the great Olympic Rings sculpture when you enter. The stadium is an architectural marvel because of its layout and design which reflect ambience and ideology of time.
2. The Historical Significance
Adolf Hitler’s regime made the 1936 Summer Olympics in Berlin controversial event. One important role the Olympic Stadium played in pushing Nazi propaganda to the world. But the Games were also an arena for some moments of bravery and unity that went beneath the propagandistic facade.
Perhaps the most remarkable moment was a display of African American track and field athlete Jesse Owens beating Hitler and his Aryan supremacy myth with four gold medals. Therefor the Olympic Stadium is a reminder of history’s dark and bright sides.
3. Highlights of the Walking Tour
3.1 Stadium Tour
Join a guided stadium tour and discover all the different sections of the Olympic Stadium. Where the tour goes is through the athletes’ entrance, the Marathon Gate, the Marathon Plaza and the field. You’ll also be able to walk up the famed Olympic steps as you try to imagine what it would have been like for all of the victorious athletes back in 1936.
3.2 The Olympic Bell Tower
At the top of the stadium you must head over to the Olympic Bell Tower. Head up to the platform from which you see the whole stadium and the skyline of Berlin. The bell of the tower, weighing 4.5 tons, used to ring the beginning and end of the Olympic Games.
3.3 Olympic Park
Overlooking the sprawling Olympic Park, a peaceful green oasis full potential for a gentle walk, is the stadium, adjacent to it. Sit back down on the grass, admire the pretty trees and gardens around you, remember how big the Olympic Games were here 80 years ago.
The Olympic Swimming Pool, Maifeld a very large field for festivals and concerts the Waldbühne amphitheater, with concerts still being performed today, are all in the park.
Conclusion
It’s not just a chance to visit an architectural masterpiece, but get an insight into the annoying complexity of Berlin’s past. In spite of the somewhat untoward historical background, the stadium remains alluring, and is visited by fans keen to see where both the sporting world and German history took shape.
The Olympic Stadium is designed as a walking tour that allows you to enjoy its architectural wonders, understand its historical importance and bask in the wonder that surrounds this iconic venue. There, don’t miss this unique and enlightening experience the next time you visit Berlin.
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