Is It Possible to See the Berlin Wall Today?
If you are planning to visit Berlin you might be thinking whether you can visit the Berlin Wall, one of the most well recognized symbols at the Cold War. The Berlin Wall was a physical and symbolic one that separated the City of Berlin during 1961-89. It acted for long almost three decades as a reminder of the bitterly political and social division of Germany. In this article we will find out if the Berlin Wall still exists and how you can enjoy the leftovers of the Berlin Wall today.
History of the Berlin Wall
Let us quickly lay some groundwork for this by checking in on the past before we become current. Construction of the wall started 26 August 1961 by the German Democratic Republic (GDR) to prevent his residents leaving into West Germany. The wall was nearly 155 kilometers long, fully circumventing West Berlin and isolating it from East Germany.
In the years that followed, the Berlin Wall was several times renovated to fortify its security. It was made of two concrete walls with a “death strip” between, which was armored by barbed wire, watchtowers, and anti-tank ditches. The wall also had various checkpoints, for instance Checkpoint Charlie, where individuals could pass from on area to the next below strict vigilance.
Can The Berlin Wall Still Be Seen Today
Although Berlin Wall largely ravaged after reunion of Germany in 1990 like some parts kept by historical remnants of Berlin Wall and lod monumen for the visiting. Today, traces of the Berlin Wall can be observed at several sites and it’s possible to understand its importance:
1. East Side Gallery
The East-Side-Gallery is probably the most famous remaining remnant of the Berlin Wall. Situated in Friedrichshain-Kreuzberg, extending over a huge 1.3 kilometres and decorated with works of art generated by street artists the world over. Walking along the East Side Gallery brings to life the artistic creations and political declarations that manifested themselves after the wall fell.
2. Berlin Wall Memorial
Located within Barensfelder Strasse, the Berlin Wall Memorial is a specific area aimed at preserving a large segment of the wall as well as a preserved border strip and watchtowers. Situated in Bernauer Strasse, it allows visitors to come in and get a comprehensive exhibition about the history and the boom of the wall. Here you can also visit the Chapel of Reconciliation and the Documentation Center that offers additional info regarding the construction and fall of the wall.
3. Checkpoint Charlie
Checkpoint Charlie, the most well-known border crossing during the Cold War has become a touristic place. Though the original guardhouse itself has disappeared, a replica has been erected at the location. Visit the Checkpoint Charlie Museum nearby to see more of the lives that were lived within the divided city.
4. Mauerpark
Mauerpark, situated in Prenzlauer Berg, was formerly part of the death strip between the two walls. Nowadays, it has been turned into a lively park and has on Sundays a famous flea market. Although a part of the wall is still preserved, visitors can enjoy the vibrant crowd of street performers and locals.
In Conclusion
As a complete structure, the Berlin Wall is no longer in existence, yet its historical significance could be experienced by means of the last remnants and museums dedicated to memorializing it. Visiting these places help you get a better understanding of the split that once was Berlin, and respect the re-unification efforts.
Regardless of if you are looking for the street art on the East Side Gallery, the comprehensive show at the Berlin Wall Memorial, or the historical significance of Checkpoint Charlie, a visit to these locations will provide you a taste of history and a chance to experience unity over division come to life.
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