The History and Landmarks of Berlin
The city of Berlin is steeped in history, dating back to the 13th century, but it is a city that has been through turbulent times as well. Holocaust memorials and graffiti-covered remains of the Berlin Wall can be seen in the city, and you can pay homage to the city's unification with the Brandenburg Gate. You can also explore the city's art scene, as well as modern landmarks like the Berliner Philharmonie.
Mix of Modern and Historic Architecture
Berlin has an eclectic mix of modern and historic architecture, with numerous modern buildings standing alongside old structures. Some buildings are preserved from the time before the war, while others feature classic European designs.
Diverse Food Scene
The food scene in Berlin is also extensive. Foodies can savor the local cuisine at a wide variety of restaurants, pubs, and bars. Check out the Instagram account @eatingberliner for great recommendations.
Diversity and Culture
Berlin is also unique in its people and culture, with people from every race and ethnicity living together in the city.
Fascinating Abandoned Buildings
Berlin is home to many abandoned buildings. For example, the former Tempelhof airport, built by the Nazis during WWII, is still in place. It was originally designed to hold a million people, but was never opened. The ruins of this airport are a fascinating example of Berlin's history. The Berlin Wall, a landmark in the city, has been the setting for many spy movies.
Fluctuating Population
Berlin's population has fluctuated a great deal over the years. It began with just a few thousand people in 1250, but by 1576 it had reached over 12,000 residents. Then it dropped to 6,000 in the early 1600s, and climbed again to over 17,000 in 1685. After this, the city's population continued to grow, and by 1880 it had surpassed a million residents. As of the 1930s, the population had reached 4 million people.
A Diverse and Modern City
Berlin is a diverse city with lots of great neighborhoods and landmarks. From classical to contemporary, the city is home to a diverse mix of architecture. Whether you want to visit a historic museum or enjoy a trendy restaurant, Berlin has something to please everyone. It is one of the most modern and exciting cities in Europe.
The Architectural Heritage of Berlin
As the capital of Prussia and Germany, Berlin has always attracted the attention of architects and city planners. After World War I, the city became an international center for the architectural avant-garde. Famous architects such as Erich Mendelsohn, Walter Gropius, and Ludwig Mies van der Rohe contributed to the architectural heritage of the city. There are examples of buildings that reflect various architectural periods, from the Baroque to Classicism, the Wilhelminian era to Art Nouveau.
Museum Island and Its Museums
Museum Island is home to five museums, including the Neues Museum, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The artwork on Museum Island depicts the history of the city and the surrounding countries, such as ancient Egypt and Byzantium. The oldest museum, the Altes Museum, was built in 1830 and celebrates the Age of Enlightenment. The Neues Museum opened thirty years later, and is officially known as the Royal Prussian museum.
