Free Walking Tour Berlin

When: Every day 10am & 12pm every day
Where: The meeting point is in front of the ehemaliges Kaiserliches Postfuhramt Berlin, Oranienburger Straße, 10117 Berlin, Germany, next to the entrance.
Price: Free

Discovering Berlin: A City with State-like Powers in Germany

by | Oct 22, 2024 | Original Berlin

Geographical neophytes in the realm of Germany might also ask themselves does Berlin fall into the category of both state and city? The answer is rather uncommon and rather interesting! And yet it is a city, but it also holds state-like authority given the federal system of governance in Germany. Now it is about time to look into the details of Berlin as a special and exceptional city and to explain why it radiates so much life.

The State of Berlin: A Historical Journey

In the following analysis the author would like to look at the various stages of development in order to understand what has shaped Berlin’s position today. The city of Berlin with first recorded history from the thirteenth century has evolved many times. This city was once the capital of the Kingdom of Prussia and the political capital during the Weimar Republic, this city has rich history that dictated what its powers in the current state-like entity.

In 1945, at the end of World War II, Germany was divided into four zones: American, British, French and Soviet. Berlin itself was also situated fully inside Soviet zone and was occupied by the four powers, divided into four sectors. What happened in Berlin was similar to the division of Germany into eastern and western parts. Consequently, Berlin became two separate entities: The East Berlin – the capital of the East Germany and West Berlin – The city controlled by the Western Allies.

The Top Event It is difficult to single out one major event that shaped the course of contemporary history as the Berlin Wall and the event of reunification of the two German States symbolizes a major event of this century.

The severance of links between East and West Berlin became geometric in 1961 by the building of the Berlin Wall. This wall increasingly closed off West Berlin from the larger part of East Germany, thus being a structural barrier. The process of German reunification started on the 13th November 1989 when the Berlin Wall was pulled down.

Having been divided during the Cold war period since 1945, the two entity of Germany, East and West respectively rejoined on October 3, 1990, in the same year Berlin became the capital of united Germany again. Nevertheless, today’s Berlin preserves certain state-like prerogatives, and this gives Berlin a special status in the system of Germany’s federal states. This special status is referred from article 116 of the Berlin State Constitution.

Berlin’s State-like Powers

The structure of German federal state is divided into sixteen states known as, “Länder.” These states have a fairly comprehensive legislative and administrative jurisdiction. Still, as a city-state, the same powers belong to Berlin as to other states and therefore Berlin has a special position within Germany.

Legislative Powers

Berlin does have its state parliament, know as the Berlin House of Representatives that also passes the laws and regulation for the city of Berlin. It is a legislative assembly of Berlin state, composed by elected members, whose main scope is to protect the interests of population of this city.

Also, Berlin can perform some activities within the framework of the Bundesrat, Federal Council of Germany. The Bundesrat is one of the federal chambers of the German Parliament and will is an important participant in the legislative procedure. To have a say in the making of the national legislation Berlin has a representative in the Bundesrat.

Administrative Powers

German states have many powers that can typically be attributed to the individual cities but Berlin holds many prerogatives of an administrative city-state. This comprises of capacity to deliver public utilities including education, transport and healthcare within the border of Berlin. Since it affords Berlin the ability to formulate policies that are unique to the wants and needs of the people within the city.

International Representation

Berlin is also an internationally recognised state-like entity by virtue of its state-like status. Hq has maintained the embassies, consulates and cultural representations in the world as a way of establishing its personality and building up the relationship in the globe. These international offices are important branches whose main function is to promote the interests of Berlin and its citizens.

Multiculturalism and ethnic variety in Berlin

Apart from the state like authority, Berlin is famous for its active and colourful population. The city continues to pull in varying groups of individuals, courtesy of the active art culture, historical structures, and famous museums available in the area. Be it using the leftover of the wall or warming up along the night club or simply walking on the street, Berlin always pops up as an attraction to the clients.

Besides, many areas in Berlin are ethnically diverse too. There is a huge variety of the city districts, starting from modern Kreuzberg up to the classic Mitte full of historical references and unique atmosphere.

A City with Great History

Though it might sound cliché but one cannot overemphasize the importance of Berlin Historically. Evidence of the scars put into place by the WWII and division can still be seen all over the city. This article also gives us glimpses of the past by bringing in the Brandenburg Gate and the Reichstag Parliament Building among others.

Besides, Berlin has always been a place with great museological and gallery potential. The Museum Island as a part of the World Heritage area has five outstanding museums that exhibit art and pieces of various ages. From Egyptian art at Neues Museum and runic stones at the Pergamon Museum to the contemporary art of the 20th century at Neue Nationalgalerie and beyond, museums of Berlin provide a historic and comprehensive experience.

In Conclusion

Berlin is indubitably a city, but as one of 16 states in the federal system of Germany it has certain competencies and roles. For this reason, the city of Cologne has a chance to act independently and pass its own legislation, something that German cities definitely do not possess. Hence, Berlin is an astonishing city, which combines cultural activity and historical and international significance. Despite its historical context, vibrant night life or diverse districts, there is something in Berlin for anybody.

Thank you for reading. If you're inspired by the stories of Berlin and want to delve deeper, why not join us on our Free Berlin Walking Tour? It's a wonderful way to immerse yourself in the city's rich history and vibrant culture. We look forward to welcoming you soon.

WHAT TO EXPECT

  • 3.5 hours walking tour
  • Berlin’s major highlights
  • Brandenburg Gate
  • Reichstag and Berlin Wall
  • Historical sites

Free Walking Tour Berlin

When: Every day 10am & 12pm every day
Where: The meeting point is in front of the ehemaliges Kaiserliches Postfuhramt Berlin, Oranienburger Straße, 10117 Berlin, Germany, next to the entrance.
Price: Free