If you’re a history buff or just love European royalty, this walking tour of the beautiful landmarks of Royal Berlin is a must. An exciting and delightful journey through memory of the Hohenzollern dynasty, in which tales of kings, emperors and queens shaped the city’s past. Walking through Berlin’s beautiful streets, squares and palaces, the feeling of living in golden age Prussian glory will take you back to time. Onwards we go on a regal exploration of her, unearthing the hidden historical treasures she has to offer.
The Birth of the Hohenzollern Dynasty
Royal Berlin’s story is that in the 15th century, it’s the story of the rise of the Hohenzollern dynasty. The Hohenzollerns became one day mere local nobles and the next day powerful rulers who expanded their influence, their territories. By the 18th century they had become kings of Prussia and then (1871) German Emperors. The Hohenzollerns left indelible marks in Berlin and they legacy stands out in grandeur of their royal residence as well as in the history associated with the residence.
The Berlin City Palace
Your walking tour starts at the Berlin City Palace, also called Stadtschloss – the centre of Royal Berlin. This is a Baroque palace, once the principal house of the Hohenzollerns, and a symbol of their power and prosperity. Unfortunately though it was severely damaged by World War II and demolished after the war.
Yet fear not, for the Berlin City Palace is being returned to its former glory. Since then, the site has been renamed the Humboldt Forum, a modern reconstruction of the area that will be home to several cultural institutions including museums and exhibition spaces — a cornucopia of history and art. This architectural masterpiece will represent the wealth of tradition of the Hohenzollern dynasty when it is finished.
The historic Unter den Linden Boulevard
If your legs back you to the Berlin City Palace exit, follow your walking tour along historic Unter den Linden Boulevard. A grand street, lined with linden trees, this street saw centuries of history and gundo. There are lots of landmarks on the boulevard—Brandenburg Gate, the State Opera, the Crown Prince’s Palace—each with its own story of Berlin’s past.
As you wander down Unter den Linden you can appreciate the lovely buildings in this lovely city. Follow this picturesque boulevard marveling at the intricate facades, grand palaces and charming cafes along it. You will feel transported to a past of splendor and elegance past, the Hohenzollerns are palpable in their grandeur.
The Prussian Glory: Charlottenburg Palace
Finish your walking tour westernward, to Charlottenburg Palace, an original masterpiece of royal residence. The largest of Berlin’s royal palaces, Queen Sophie Charlotte was named after her, after being constructed in her husband, King Frederick I’s, name. With its opulent interiors, the Hohenzollerns’ wonderful gardens and royal art collections are a testimony to how they lived.
The Palace’s Splendid Architecture
The Baroque and Rococo architecture will take your breath away as you approach the palace. You will be surprised by the central domed, magnificent ballrooms and groovy gardens of the Hohenzollerns, which is impeccable taste. And don’t forget to see the living quarters with their fine frescoes and fine furniture. The palace is truly a gem, and gives you a taste of life in the world of the Prussian royal family.
The Gardens and Park
The sprawling Charlottenburg Gardens stands along the side of the palace. But tranquility and restorative respite on a beautiful Pacific day as you wander the park are easy to provide. Romantic stroll through the Orangery, mausula and Belvedere tea house… with the lush green around.
Tips for Your Royal Berlin Walking Tour
To make the most of your Royal Berlin walking tour, here are a few tips to keep in mind:
Comfortable Shoes
Make sure you have comfortable shoes for your expedition, because you’ll be walking miles. If your feet are happy, you will be able to explore more of Berlin’s streets and Berlin is excellent place to walk.
Guided Tours
If you’re a beginner here, or want to hear expert opinions, I recommend taking a guided tour. If they have some background in history, their knowledgeable guides can tell fascinating historical fact and anecdotes that enrich your experience in a way that a tape just cannot.
Plan Your Visit
When you’re setting out on your walking tour, first ensure that the sites you want to see are open and available, before you head out. It depends on the area you go to, some may offer limited access, or need advance booking, so plan ahead and get to see as much as you can.
Take Your Time
This walking tour is not a race, so just remember that. Step back, enjoy the historical madness, be sated by the architecture, and take part in the regal past of Berlin. Make an experience really memorable, allowing yourself the luxury of just pausing at charming cafes, or picnic in the park.
Conclusion
A walking tour through Royal Berlin is an excellent tour through a by gone era of Berlin. You will follow in the footsteps of the Hohenzollerns and the grandeur and historical background of their work will come to life. Step after step is filled with awe inspiring architecture and tales of regal supremacy from the Berlin City Palace to the Unter den Linden Boulevard and Charlottenburg Palace. Take a chance to luxuriate in the richness of this gem of a city’s unique history, down the corridors of royal Berlin street.
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