Did you know there is much rich history of the Berlin Wall and its importance to the culture around Germany? If you are considering to visit this great tourist attraction, look no further for more information. This guide will explain you all that is necessary in order to make the most of your visit to the country. So, let’s dive in!
1. Understanding the Berlin Wall
Before one pays a visit to the site, it is necessary to have basic knowledge regarding to the background of the Berlin Wall. This was constructed in 1961 during the Cold War to split between East and West Berlin. By the years it has evolved to represent the political struggle between the capitalist west and the communism dominated east.
Several sections of the wall laid down after the reunion in 1989 were turned into monuments or left intact and mere memorials. Now Berlin Wall is a symbol of long history of the city and the suffering of its dwellers.
2. Choosing the Right Time to Visit
If you are planning your visit specific to the Berlin Wall then it will be important that you pay attention to the climatic conditions in Berlin during different timeframe. Therefore, the best time to visit is in either spring or autumn since the weather is not very hot and many tourists’ attractions are found outside. But beware: Some of these seasons are likely to be busy with visitors compared to other times of the year.
For the less crowded experience, you may try visiting the country in winter. Just to note that you should carry warm clothing since the weather at those places is usually cold. It is also advised to visit summer, but of course, during summer season, crowds are bigger compared to other months, including July and August.
3. Must-See Sites along the Berlin Wall
It extends for about 155 kilometers (96 miles) and there are several interesting locations along the former-wall. Here are a few notable ones:
a. East Side Gallery
The East Side Gallery is a nearly 1316 meters long section of the Wall which was painted during the ‘89/90 after the fall of the Wall and is covered with over a hundred murals painted by artists from all over the world. It is the largest open-air gallery globally, and with this colorful messages of unity and freedom it initiates.
b. Berlin Wall Memorial
The Berlin Wall Memorial is one of a kind, and anyone who wants to get a good feel of what exactly transpired can go there. It has Documentation Centre; Chapel of Reconciliation; preserved part of the wall with a related exposition. The given site offers a rich material to get acquainted with the peculiarities of the wall and its landmarks.
c. Checkpoint Charlie
Checkpoint Charlie was one of the most popular borders during the period of the Cold War. Currently, it is used as a tourist site and also represents a separated city. Stop here to be familiar with other escape activities of prisoners and espionage that happened at this checkpoint as well.
4. Practical Tips for Visiting the Berlin Wall
To make the most of your visit, here are a few practical tips:
As for the dress code, when walking across campus there will be some amount of walking therefore please wear comfortable shoes.
One might consider getting an organized tour in a bid to get more insight about the history.
It is therefore important to check the opening hours of each site to ensure one is well scheduled for the plan.
Carry a camera because there are so many interesting paintings and great history to take pictures of.
Always appreciate the importance of the place to avoid intruding anyone’s privacy.
5. Reflecting on the Berlin Wall’s Legacy
The Berlin Wall is a great opportunity to step back and think about it; contemplate the events that caused the barrier to be built; and learn more about the history of East and West Germany. It is an opportunity to hear more about the history of a city that was divided and further joined together. When visiting the sites remember that there are deeper meanings and that there is much to learn from such an incidences in history.
Tourism to Berlin Wall is not merely showcasing of a landmark; it is about paying tribute to people who struggled in times of Cold War. It is such an opportunity to know how such divisions were made in the past and make sure they are not repeated today.
Therefore, make your travel plan, know the spellbinding history and experience the fight which at last broke the Berlin Wall.
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