Berlin
Fast Facts
- Location: In north-east Germany
- Attraction type: Historic city
- Significance: Among the most accommodative cities in Europe with every 1 out of 7.5
Berlin resident being an immigrant
- Best Time to Visit: May to October
- How to Reach: By flights from all parts of the world; alternatively by railways and
roadways from major European cities
- Nearest International Airport: Berlin Tegel Airport, Berlin Schönefeld Sirport
Berlin is forceful, lovable, adaptable, enduring and protective all at the same time. Berlin in Germany holds a pivotal place in shaping not only Germany or Europe's fortune, but also that of the world. Berlin has significant influence in domains of economics, commerce, politics, science, technology, art and architecture. Berlin with its abundant charm, endless variety, continuous adaptability, and extravagant awareness is always a place worth exploring.
History
Established as a royal residency in the 15th century, Berlin rose into prominence in the 18th century under Fredrick the Great or King Friedrich II who ruled from 1712 to 1786. His liberal reforms and patronage for the sciences and arts led to the formation of The Academy of Sciences and the Academy of Arts. Thereafter, from the period of Count Otto Von Bismarck in 19th century till Adolf Hitler's Third Reich from 1933 to 1945, Berlin remained the capital of undivided Germany.
After the Second World War, Berlin was partitioned into the East Zone dominated by Russia and West Zone dominated by the British, American and the French. This division was sealed by the construction of the Berlin Wall by German Democratic Republic (GDR) in 1961. This Berlin Wall was destroyed in the peaceful revolution of 1989 which unified West and East Germany into a single nation.
Significance
Berlin city is fascinating because of its power and intellect, its vibrancy and tolerance. Here you get the opportunity to walk shoulder to shoulder with peddlers, corporate honchos, to political kingpins from all corners of the globe. It is a city which 'lives and let lives' to the extent that one out of every seven-and-a-half Berlin resident is an immigrant. Berlin as a city is a trendsetter free from rigid dogmas. It is a city where you can submit yourself to life's pleasures and emerge younger.
Activities
Berlin in Germany is always vibrating with activities. Concerts, performances, nightclubs, and theaters keep you enthralled for hours. Clärchens Ballhaus is a marvelous 19th century dance hall where you can swing to the tunes of waltz, tango, pop, or disco. In the summer months enjoy their open-air dinners. Maria Am Ostbahnhof beside River Spree has been made famous by a performance of 'Strokes' in 2005. This music club features the best DJs in city. Radialsystem V is a performance place where there is perfect fusion of contemporary music with medieval variety, poetry and pop, and digital displays with paintings. Here you get an incomparable amalgamation of fine arts, dance and music.
Top Berlin Attractions
During the daytime, visit the top attractions of this capital city of Germany. The Reichstag or the German Parliament is the most distinguished landmark of Berlin. The central glass dome is particularly wonderful. The 18th century Charlottenburg Palace or Schloss Charlottenburg characterized by its baroque architecture was built as the summer home for Elector Fredrick III's wife, Lady Charlotte. In the palace do not miss the Weisser Saal Chapel, Galerie der Romantik, and Golden Galerie. The Japanese and Chinese porcelain collections are particularly significant. Take a stroll along Nikolaiviertal, a historic area on the banks of River Spree. Some of the oldest buildings, like the Red Town Hall or Rotes Rathaus and Nikolaikirche are found in this ancient area.
Other notable sites which you must never miss while visiting Berlin are the Berlin Wall, Alte Nationalgalerie, Altes Museum, and Bundeskanzlerampt.
Accommodation
While visiting Berlin you can select from hotels of all categories for putting up. Westin Grand Hotel, Hotel Hackescher Markt, and Dorint Sofitel am Gendarmenmarkt are among the renowned luxury accommodations in Germany Berlin. In case you prefer to stay in a comfort hotel, then Art Nouveau, Alexander Plaza, and Hotel Künstlerheim Luise are the ones to select from. Even if you are traveling on a budget you could get a proper accommodation in Berlin. You could put up in Die Fabrik, Eastern Comfort, or Charlottenburger Hof.
Dining
Dining facilities in Berlin are mind boggling. Lutter and Wegner is one of the oldest restaurant and bar famous for its collection of wines and champagnes. Schwarzenraben housed in one of the most historic buildings specializes in Italian recipes. Alt Luxemburg with an inimitable 19th century ambiance is renowned for its lobster lasagna, and rolled saddle of rabbit in coffee sauce. Dressler a restaurant specializing in German cuisine is famous for its cod with Pommery mustard sauce, duck with red cabbage, or oysters on half-shell.
Related Links :
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CL0HDIh__Q4: Check out the exquisite charm of the city of Berlin in this travel video! The great heritage is truly reflected in the wonderful architecture, the paved streets and the general ambiance of this historic and beautiful German city.
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