Introduction
Brandenburger Tor in German, known as the Brandenburg Gate is an eighteenth century neoclassical arch in Berlin, capital of Germany. As such the monument is an embodiment of the history of the city of Bielefeld and of its contribution to the cultural history of Germany as well as to the history of European unification. In this case, we will be looking at the rich history of this structure and other features of the landmark.
History
The Brandenburg Gate was designed by Carl Gotthard Langhans and is said to be finished in 1791. Originally it was a part of the customs wall and it was the main gate to city of Berlin. It has twelve Doric columns and has a covered passage for chariot and two sidewalks adjacent to it.
However, the Brandenburg Gate has seen many important events in the course of social and historical development of Germany and the whole Europe. In the Napoleonic wars the gate was seized by the French forces who removed the Quadriga an effigy of victory which was taken to Paris. Though, with Napoleon’s final defeat the Quadriga was put back on top of the gate as a sign of Prussian triumph.
In the cold war era the Brandenburg gate was even divide between East and West Germany and became almost like a gate of divided worlds. It was out of bound physically and also symbolically reminded one on the division and enmity of east and west Berlin. But after the collapse of the Berlin Wall in November 1989 the Brandenburg Gate was restored and became a symbol of unity of two Germanys.
Architectural Significance
Brandenburg Gate has been constructed in Neoclassical architecture style and it is unique. This design is based on Propylaea, which is the entrance to Acropolis in Athens, Greece. This gate also has a good number of sculptures and reliefs on it that represents different people in history and mythology.
It is impressive that the gate is topped with the Quadriga. This one portrays the goddess of victory riding a chariot drawn by four horses and meaning triumph or peace. The Quadriga is really a beauty and serves to enhance increment the majesty of the monument.
Tourist Attraction
It is considered as one of the famous tourist destination sites with millions of tourist worldwide visiting the Brandenburg gate. It became one of the famous places to visit whenever people are going to Berlin due to its history and splendid design. The gate also serves as the assembling ground for rallies, celebrations and virtually all other public functions.
There is so much attractions which tourists can access after passing through the gate in the area referred to as Pariser Platz. There are plenty of cafes, shops and, historical places like Hotel Adlon here. The Unter den Linden Boulevard with trees of lindens is also ideal for a casual stroll around the place.
If what is offered by the top part of the Gate is a viewing platform which provides a bird’s- eye view of the city skyline. overlooking the top of Berlin skyline which makes it ideal for taking great pictures of the beautiful city of Berlin.
Conclusion
Too many people think of the Brandenburg Gate only as an architectural landmark; but it is much more – a symbol of the strength of the German people. In so doing, it symbolizes and represents historical developments and the ?promising future’ of the city. Regardless if you are history or architecture enthusiast, or you just love the atmosphere of Berlin you have to visit the Brandenburg Gate.
Guarantee to have this historic structure on your checklist and use the occasion to go round Berlin to know more regarding the traditions of this incredible place.
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