If you’re planning a trip to Berlin, Germany, you must allow time to walk the Berlin Wall Trail. This unique trail stretches 160 kilometers to enable you to trace the path of that most iconic of Cold War symbols, the Berlin Wall. Read on for a full guide to making the most of your visit to the remains of the Berlin Wall, as well as a history to date for this famous monument.
1. Understanding the Berlin Wall
The Berlin Wall was a wall (or physical and ideological barrier) that divided East and West Berlin from 1961 to 1989. As a way of stopping East German residents from escaping to West German state, it was built by the German Democratic Republic (GDR). There was concrete segments, guard towers, barbed wire and more security measures in the wall.
Through the years, the Berlin Wall became a powerful Cold War symbol reminding families and friends apart. The political division of Germany abruptly ended in 1989 with its fall and helped bring about German unity.
2. Exploring the Berlin Wall Trail
Some of you have the Berlin Wall Trail, in which you can retrace the path of the wall and learn Germany’s history. The trail is split into 14 sections, each with their own special landmarks and associated stories. Here are a few highlights:
2.1 Mauerpark
Here you begin your journey through gates, once part of the ‘death strip’ at Mauerpark, a vivd public park. These days it is a venue for locals and visitors alike to gather. Kick back and check out the flea market, live music and total vibe.
2.2 Bernauer Straße
The central location of Bernauer Straße was one of the focal points in the East/West division. As you can see here, there’s the Berlin Wall Memorial with a reconstructed border strip, the Chapel of Reconciliation, and the Documentation Center, which covers everything about the History of the wall.
2.3 East Side Gallery
Over a hundred paintings on the remnants of the Berlin Wall make up the East Side Gallery, an outdoor gallery. These vivid murals were created by artists from around the world to look at themes of freedom, unity and hope.
3. Practical Tips for Exploring the Berlin Wall Trail
Here are some essential tips to help you make the most of your visit:
3.1 Plan Your Route in Advance
Find out about the different parts of the Berlin Wall Trail and choose the landmarks you would like to see. Take the time needed to stop at each site and feel free to plot your route accordingly to ensure you will have enough time.
3.2 Wear Comfortable Shoes
If you are going to follow the Berlin Wall Trail, you will have to do quite a bit of walking so it’s better to wear comfortable shoes. Make sure you’re going to be ready for whatever terrain and weather conditions you find yourself in.
3.3 Take Advantage of Guided Tours
If you want a more in depth look at the wall’s history, try to join a guided tour. Good guides that will give you good insights and anecdotes will make your overall experience be better.
3.4 Bring a Map
The trail is well marked so you will always know which way to go, but it is always a good idea to carry a map to also help you find your way around to the next section and to places near by, such as a restaurant or restrooms.
3.5Respect the Memorials
And as you hike the Berlin Wall Trail keep in mind, that many of the panels are also memorials to people who died trying to cross the wall. Honor them in these areas for treating them with reverence and respect.
4. Conclusion
The Berlin Wall Trail is the perfect thing for anyone who wants to look back at Germany’s divided history, culture, and the people themselves. Learning about why the Berlin Wall was such a monumental event in world history, and learning the significance of it, and what it was, and seeing where it was along the trail, it makes you kind of understand that, that was a war, and look what they did.
Whether you’re a history buff or even simply interested in learning more about the world history, the Berlin Wall Trail is definitely a wonderful educational and thinking journey that must be experienced by everyone. Lace up your walking shoes and grab a map, and you’re ready for this incredible walk through history.
Table of Contents
