Berlin: the past is present
Berlin – a city where the past really is very much present wherever you go. This year marks the 55th anniversary of “barbed-wire Sunday” – the first step in constructing the Berlin wall, closing off the Communist-controlled eastern sector of Berlin from the Allied-occupied west. The barrier divided Berlin from 1961 to 1989, and today wandering this historically rich city you still stumble upon remnants of the city’s past. Today you can visit the East Side Gallery, Berlin’s longest remaining stretch of the original inner and outer Berlin Wall. For those interested in a more in depth look into the history of the Wall should look no further. In Berlin, every part of the city has a story to tell…
East Side Gallery
A powerfully visual summary of Germany’s turbulent history, East Side Gallery is the world’s largest open air-mural collection, and a must-see Berlin experience. In 1989, after 28 years of division, the Berlin Wall was dismantled leaving a 1.3km stretch of wall now known as East Side Gallery. A visit to East Side Gallery provides a truly fascinating insight into Berlin’s history, with an overwhelming message of peace and hope. Don’t miss the most famous of murals by Dmitri Vrubel, showing the amicable kiss between former Soviet leader Leonid Brezhnev and East German Prime Minister Eric Honecker.
Checkpoint Charlie
Seemingly unremarkable when you first set your eyes on it, Checkpoint Charlie remains one of the few sights in Berlin in the original state from the Cold War era. The most famous of the East Germany – West Germany border crossings, Checkpoint Charlie marked the transition point for members of the Allied forces. Experience ‘A Taste of Berlin and Beyond’ and see this iconic landmark for yourself.
Reichstag
The seat of the German parliament, the Reichstag is one of Berlin’s most historic landmarks. Built at the end of the 19th century and essentially a ruin after the war, after some debate, it was decided that the Reichstag should be restored. It was British architect Norman Foster who introduced the striking glass dome, a symbol of transparency of the democratic government. A walk through the dome itself is a stunning experience, culminating in sweeping views of the city.
“Berlin’s turbulent history has transformed the capital into one of Europe’s most popular travel destinations. A truly wonderful way to experience the extensive history of Berlin with Titan is including the city with a river cruise along the peaceful German waterways. Experience the best of both worlds with a leisurely journey through protected landscapes, culminating with a discovery of the extensive history of this fascinating capital.”
Although she loves a lie-in at home, Laura is often up and about before dawn on holiday. She’s watched the sun rise over the Grand Canyon, Uluru and Angkor Wat, but her favourite was seeing the first light of the New Year sweeping across the yacht-dotted waters of Sydney Harbour.
Laura | About the author
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