Berlin - History and the Modernist Dream

Berlin - History and the Modernist Dream

Berlin is a magical metropolis. It is hands down one of the most exciting, interesting places I have ever been, and would highly recommend to anyone that they should  visit this fantastic city for as long as they can. 

Firstly, the nightlife is amazing. The city is so huge you couldn't possibly discover it all unless you were a committed local, and even then I feel it would still withhold some secrets from you. Secondly, the city is rich with history. Germany is nation that has been functioning for over 1000 years (maybe not as GERMANY, but you get the idea) and being in such a nations capital city, evidence of this historical background is evident on a grand scale. 

This post today is going to focus on the Historical and cultural sites that you need to visit in Berlin, and then the next post will cover the nightlife scene. 

1. Brandenburg Gate

The Brandenburg Gate is a statement of architectural genius from a neoclassical period, and is recognized globally as one of the most well known landmarks in the city. While not one of the oldest monuments that can be seen throughout the city, it has a rich modern-historical context. It began as a peace momument constructed by King Fredrick William the 2nd of Prussia. During the sack of Berlin at the climax of World War II, it was nearly destroyed, and then in 2000-2002 it was restored to it's former glory. When the Berlin wall was pulled down, the Gate was once again freely accessible to both East and West Germany, making it a symbol of the cities reunification. 

That's me, awesome, right?

2.Berlin Wall

The Berlin Wall is one of those monuments that when you see it, its gravity pulls you in. You can feel its importance, see the impact it would have once had on the city - and the impact its destruction had on the cultural climate of the city to where it is today. The majority of the wall has been pulled down, however, there is a section that still stands to this day, with the original graffiti still in place. I will say that strolling along the wall was one of the most enjoyable experiences of Germany, and the feeling of SEEING history is one to chase. 

unfortunately for you all, i'm in all of these photos.

3. The Holocaust Memorial 

Another important historical icon, the Holocaust memorial was designed to give the viewer a feeling of saddened awe and the sheer amount of Jewish people that died during Hitlers reign in world war II. Exploring through it, it has been designed to get lost in, and when one finally discovers the underground section, they are confronted with all the names known of the Jewish people who were murdered. It is a somber, but needed experience if you're in the capital city. 

Except for this one, who would have thunk it. 

That's all for today Escapists, next post will focus on the nightlife of Berlin, which is renown for it's awesomeness. 

Sebastian Bull

<--! all the images contained within are mine -->