Free Walking Tour Berlin

When: Every day 10am & 12pm every day
Where: The meeting point is in front of the ehemaliges Kaiserliches Postfuhramt Berlin, Oranienburger Straße, 10117 Berlin, Germany, next to the entrance.
Price: Free

Why is the Berlin Bear so Prominent in Statues and Signs?

by | Oct 22, 2024 | Walking Tour

Even during your leisurely walk around Berlin, one is sure to meet that lovable and universally embedded icon, the Berlin Bear. I was fascinated to discover the most prominent symbol of Astana, regardless of whether incluso en escultura, letreros o incluso como juguetes, cordially is a bear. But why is it precisely one of the most significant figures? So sit back and allow this author to take you on a rather enlightening journey where the meaning behind Berlin’s Bear awaits.

The Symbolism of the Bear

The bear has been the symbol popularly associated with Berlin for centuries. It symbolises power, endurance and safety. Historians trust that the name “Berlin” is derived from the Old Polabian word ‘berl’ meaning ‘swamp’, the favorite territory of the bear.

During history a lot of troubles were over Berlin for example wars and division of the city. Still, as the bear guards its cubs, Berlin has risen to the occasion and ‘stood up’ or rather bounced back. The bear represents this tenacity that is so enshrined in the society’s character of the city in question.

The Ampelmann and the Bear

The symbology around the Berlin bear is easily identifiable, sometimes simplistically signified by the Ampelmann figure. These traffic lights with a little green or red man are a cherished part of the Berliners traffic culture. Rather surprisingly, the Ampelmann itself holds an interesting story about the symbol of the Berlin Bear.

The Ampelmann was first used in the streets the GDR to enhance visibility of pedestrian signals. The figure was designed by traffic psychologist Karl Peglau, though the bear was also scribbled into the picture. The Ampelmann has also become associated with the peaceful revolution in the East Germany because the city will do all that is in their power to protect their people.

Statues of the Berlin Bear

Trotting around the city there are many Berlin bears which are significantly different from each other. Here are a few notable ones:

The Bear at the Brandenburg Gate

In one of the most visited and popular sites of tourism in Berlin you will find the Brandenburg Gate where a statue of a crowned bear is placed. This bear symbolise the royal bear baiting that was held in the past near this place of tourist interest.

Unter den Linden Bear

Ver виды on one of Berlin’s most famous symbols – the Linden Bear – positioned at the strictly brisk avenue Unter den Linden. Flaunting flowers in spring and dressed in hat during winter this statue tells Berlin’s story of constant transformation.

The Buddy Bears

The Buddy Bears are a line of painted bear sculptures that are located in many areas of the city. Intended initially as an emblem of liberal political culture and internationalist amity at a time when East and West Germany were reunifying these bear icons are now a specially signed permanent tourist draw in Berlin.

Exploring Berlin’s Bear Significance

Beyond statues and traffic lights, the Berlin Bear can be found in various other signs and symbols across the city:

Coat of arms: Even though the bear seems to be not as scary as the tiger, used in the coat of arms of Berlin, it represents the power of the city.

Street names: The bear was important in some ways and there are streets in Berlin that bear the name of the animal in question.

Souvenirs: There are fun products in the style of the bear mascot of the city: key chains, mugs and T-shirts, available for visitors.

Final Thoughts

The Berlin Bear is not only a mascoll; it represents history and hearth of Berlin. Today, there are towering statues, breathtaking paintings together with clear signs with the bear leading the way a symbol of the city’s spirit and character.

 Take this friendly creature with you as you wander around Berlin’s streets, or the idea that went into this creation.

Thank you for reading. If you're inspired by the stories of Berlin and want to delve deeper, why not join us on our Free Berlin Walking Tour? It's a wonderful way to immerse yourself in the city's rich history and vibrant culture. We look forward to welcoming you soon.

WHAT TO EXPECT

  • 3.5 hours walking tour
  • Berlin’s major highlights
  • Brandenburg Gate
  • Reichstag and Berlin Wall
  • Historical sites

Free Walking Tour Berlin

When: Every day 10am & 12pm every day
Where: The meeting point is in front of the ehemaliges Kaiserliches Postfuhramt Berlin, Oranienburger Straße, 10117 Berlin, Germany, next to the entrance.
Price: Free