Berlin is a city steeped in history and conflict. When walking the streets, it is easy to let your mind wander to what the past must have felt like. Where did East Berlin end and West Berlin begin? What would it have been like, living behind a wall? How did ordinary people survive the atrocities of the Nazi regime? Its almost like you can still feel the oppression underneath all of the new shopping areas and doner shops. And that is part of the beauty of Berlin. It challenges you and intrigues you all while providing you with the comforts of home.
In tribute to this, I visited some iconic sites, which I suggest you to visit as well. Berlin offers a lot to see, however I found these to be some of the most interesting:
Holocaust Memorial – This is an outdoor memorial on the former location of the Berlin Wall is comprised of 2,711 geometrically arranged concrete pillars. The ground is uneven and undulated beneath your feet. The concrete pillars are of different sizes and shapes, and are meant to invoke a sense of isolation and loss as you walk amongst them…fitting for a Holocaust memorial. There are no names or markings on the concrete, however there is an information centre where you can learn more information about that time period, as well as see the Room of Names. It is a chilling reminder of the atrocities of humanity during that time, and a testament to why this should never happen again. Though photos are allowed, it is recommended you be respectful and treat this area with a sense of reverence.
Brandenburg Gate – Located close to the Holocaust Memorial, this is one of the best known landmarks in Germany. It was originally constructed as a city gate which marked the start of road from Berlin to Brandenburg and also served as the start of the boulevard which led to the city palace of the Prussian monarchs. In more recent history, it was used as a Nazi symbol and a symbol of separation of East and West Germany. However once the Berlin Wall fell, it became a symbol of unification of the city, and has been restored to its original glory. It is beautiful to see, and now acts as an area for outdoor events, shows and parties.
Reichstag/Bundestag – These are very historical buildings in Germany, and is where the current day German parliament sits. The Reichstag burned down in 1933, and though attempts were made to restore in in the 1960’s, it was not until after the Wall fell that serious restoration work began. It became the parliament building again in 1999. Its is beautiful to see from the outside, and has as large park area in front of it. I highly recommend visiting the Bundestag dome. It is a large, modern glass dome just behind the Reichstag building which is open air at the top and allows you to see amazing views of the city from their patio vantage points. A large spiral staircase fills the outside edges of the structure, and is filled with historical plaques along the way. You can learn a lot of the history of the parliament, and as an added bonus, enjoy a lunch at a their rooftop restaurant! You must book tickets in advance and bring your passport when you arrive. Security is tight, so make sure not to bring any items that might be questionable.
Checkpoint Charlie – This was the best point in which foreigners were allowed to cross from West Berlin into East Berlin. It was also one of the few gaps in the wall and several attempts to cross were made by East Germans desperately trying to get to the West. After the Wall fell, East Germans flooded through its gates to their freedom in the West. The original guardhouse was removed and now sits at the Allied Museum in Berlin, however a replica was placed at the site as a tourist attraction. It is a small memorial, and very touristy, however definitely worth seeing, and spending a few minutes reflecting on what it must have been like to live in those regimented times.
The Berlin Wall Memorial – Located in the middle of Berlin, this is the central memorial site of German division. It extends 1.4kms along the former border strip, and contains the last piece of the Berlin Wall with the preserved grounds behind it. There was the Wall, then a centre strip with a guard tower and barriers, followed by another wall. You really get a sense of the lengths the Soviets went to in order to ensure no one was able to escape. Chilling. There is a Visitors Centre across the street which contains many informational exhibits as well as a tower which allows you a vantage point over the wall. It really gives you a sense of what it must have been like, looking over the wall to a part of the city you might never be able to access again. You can also touch the wall, and feel the cold concrete on your hands as a chilling reminder of those times.
These are just a few of the historical sites you can visit in Berlin. These are all free, and highly worth the trip. I recommend you take time to visit each one thoroughly, and really get a feel for what each represents. Modern Berlin has worked very hard to reverse the most negative parts of its history, and is now a very diverse, friendly and welcoming city. They keep these monuments as a reminder to never let the past repeat itself. And they’re doing a great job.
Berlin can feel a bit overwhelming, and as a travel advisor, I am happy to help you plan your trip to this amazing city efficiently. Contact me today to get started!
