So, if you are a history freak or a history-making amateur, then Berlin is going to be a city of your liking. Hailed as the pulse of Germany, this city is situated in one of the most historic regions in the world where monuments are exploring along the foot. In this blog post, we will virtually guide you through some of the main sights of Berlin while providing more information about the fascinating history of the German capital.
Brandenburg Gate: The Iconic Symbol of Berlin
Of course, the Brandenburg Gate is one of the foremost attractions for tourists in Berlin and a must visit destination. Standing in Pariser Platz, this new neo-classical memorial is not just a ornamental arch, but a socio-politically charged monument of German history. Dating back to the late 18th century, this gate has seen all the major events from Napoleonic wars, World War II to the Cold War period. Today it remains gra nd symbol of unity as well as peace.
When you find yourself facing this monumental architecture, try to pay respect to it. Take a close look at the details in the sculpture and the reliefs which are found on the surface of the work. Perhaps to add on this you will be able to see the Quadriga, a beautiful sculpture of the goddess of victory on the top of the gate.
So why not spend some time observing fellow countrymen and fellow human beings? To sum up, Pariser Platz is crowded with street shows, sculptures, tourists, and people of Berlin; which makes it an avant-garde of Berlin.
The Berlin Wall Memorial: A Glimpse into the Past
, a physical manifestation of the division during the Cold War and in Germany, has had a substantial connection in the fabric of the city. To investigate more information about that check the site of the Berlin Wall Memorial situated along Bernauer Strasse.
It is equally astonishing to grasp that this was a living reality which caused separations of families and communities while strolling through the open-air exhibition. The pieces of the wall maintained today are full of graffiti and rust and stand as a marker of those rebellious years. Visit the Documentation Center to find out more about the wall, stories of people, and actions that require courage if someone chose to be free.
The memorial having a wall makes it unique when touring, when you reach the other sections of the wall that has been artistically painted take some time and enjoy. These beautiful murals were painted by artists from all over the world and show that hope, strength and unity are strong messages throughout the city.
Checkpoint Charlie: Crossing the Divide
Just a few steps east of the Berlin Wall Memorial is Checkpoint Charlie, which dominated the post-war era from the Cold War period. This area marked an important checkpoint between the United States and the Soviet Union during the time that divided the city.
At Checkpoint Charlie there is a true to life replica of the original guardhouse with real looking American and Soviet soldier. Record a photo moment and catch a view of the past as you engage some of these personalities.
The Glienicke Bridge is closely located to the eastern side of the Checkpoint Charlie; the Mauermuseum (Wall Museum) focuses on the topic of the Berlin Wall. READ with stories, bits and pieces from people and objects and come and experience the vibrantly presented Multi MEDIA and Communications facility to reinforce your knowledge about this important period in the City’s history.
The Reichstag: A Symbol of Democracy
Tower like over the government district , the Reichstag is more than a building though; it gives a path of Germany’s democratic processes. Located in Berlin the building has seen much of German history including the burning in 1933, widely held to have been caused by the Nazis.
Tourists can today walk inside this impressive glass dome which provides a view of the city from above. Which when you start climbing the spiral platform will give you an insight to German politics, reuse value of architecture designs and the essence of the transparent system in a democracy.
Are you willing to consume a highly differentiated experience? Organise for yourself and book a day and a time when the parliament is in session so that you can watch and listen. Visiting the room where debates and discussions take place directly from the visitors’ gallery make acquainted with democratic Germany.
The Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe: A Solemn Tribute
Lying close to the Brandenburg Gate, The Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe offers guests a painful insight into holocaust atrocities. Created by architect Peter Eisenman, the memorial is an array of 2,711 concrete columns disposed in fields on the irregular ground.
When you are going through the maze structure, the prevailing quietness gives much impression. Reflect on its meaning and spare a thought for six million victims of one of the world’s worst tragedies.
Tips for Your Walking Tour
Now that we’ve highlighted some of the key historical sites to explore in Berlin, here are a few tips to enhance your walking tour:
Wear comfortable shoes: Shoppers are likely to spend much of their time walking given the size of Berlin. Wouldn’t it be better if you wear proper shoewear so as to maximize your touring options.
Consider a guided tour: You can choose to self-explore but this can be quite a challenge when trying to figure out the essence of the area’s history; opting for a shallowed guided tour to reduce chances of missing out on the importance of certain sites. Well informed guides provide informative and interesting historical details that make history easier and exciting to understand.
Take your time: Don’t rush through the sites. It is important to step back and read the historical implications of a place and the messages embossed on plaques and listen and look at the stories a place can tell. Of course, I decided to remind my audience that every corner in Berlin has its own story.
Plan your route: You should always prepare your route ahead of time to get the most out of your walking adventure. List down the famous buildings you want to see and map out which way makes the most sense in terms of the tour.
Immerse yourself in the local culture: Besides the antique architecture, modern city of Berlin is rather rich in various talents and creative activities. It is recommended to spend time traveling around the markets, trying numerous delicious recipes of the national cuisine, and communicate with friendly people.
Wear comfortable shoes: Berlin is a huge city and you will probably spend most of your time walking around the area. Do not forget to wear proper shoes for touring to enjoy the touring to the fullest.
Consider a guided tour: Going for a guided tour can also be useful by helping the client gain useful information and perspective as he or she moves from one historical site to another. Unlike autonomous tours, knowledgeable guides are in a position to provide extensive information and amazing facts which make the tour so interesting and lively.
Take your time: Don’t rush through the sites. Spend some time and allows oneself to read different plaques as well as interact with the stories around you. Again, as they say, every corner in Berlin has a history behind it.
Plan your route: Walking can still be tiresome, and so to avoid getting weary before you get to your desired destination, the best thing to do is to plan your walking route. This means that not only should you identify the landmarks you would like to visit but also plan in a way that makes most sense.
Immerse yourself in the local culture: Despite the historic monuments found in Berlin, the city today has lots to offer in the modern section. Although short, it offers time to visit local shops, taste local food, and engage with locals who are always friendly.
Walking around Berlin visiting archaeological sites is indeed a wonderful way to feel the history of the city. From the historic and richly symbolic Brandenburg gate to the thought-provoking strangeness of the Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe; each site in Berlin has its own story to tell and this makes the place attractive for historical savvy travellers. So put on your most comfortable pair of shoes, start this journey and explore the history of the city that is Berlin.
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