What makes Berlin’s Checkpoint Charlie a must-see attraction?
Checkpoint Charlie is one of the major and well-known historical sites that were created during the time of division of Berlin into two parts – East and West Berlin during the Cold War period. It has a rather long history and millions of tourists from different countries do visit it. Here is a sneak preview of Checkpoint Charlie through the lens of history, its importance, and other sites in the vicinity of this betrunked artery of Berlin.
The History Behind Checkpoint Charlie
Checkpoint Charlie obtained its name from the alphabet that is used by NATO military forces. It was to be called the third control point between East and West Berlin. Checkpoint Charlie was the leading border crossing point between the two parts of the city during the Cold War, available for diplomats, military and other foreigners.
After crossing Checkpoint Charlie, you will be able to see original replica of the checkpoint guardhouse that was located at the border. Some of the dramatic actions that were seen in the checkpoint were battles between the Soviet and American armored tanks.
The Significance of Checkpoint Charlie
Checkpoint Charlie therefore emerged as a sign of the ‘Berlin Wall’ and the division of Berlin and the cold war between the East and the West. It was able to see the conflict between communism and capitalist societies during the era of cold war. Today Checkpoint Charlie serves as the historical symbol or the witnesses of the people who were alive at that time.
Explore the Checkpoint Charlie Museum
When visiting Berlin, it is impossible not to visit Checkpoint Charlie’s atomic neighbor – the Checkpoint Charlie Museum. It focuses on the history of the Berlin Wall, barriers, and the details of escape and change of numerous people during the time of division.
It is also worth anticipating that after entering the museum, the visitor is being taken through a time tunnel. Photographs, documents and a number of artefacts part of the exhibition helps to understand historical events and personal life stories of people affected by the Wall. Watch different interesting attempts at escape – tunnels, hot-air balloons made out of bed linen, cars with secretly constructed hiding places, as well as a motorcycle with a hidden compartment.
Nearby Attractions
- East Side Gallery of Berlin: It is an open-air gallery that is situated at the longest remaining part of the wall depicting artistic masterpieces such as paintings and murals executed by artists from different parts of the world.
- Topography of Terror; Open-air and indoor exhibition, located near to the charlie, discussing the history of Nazi’s -SS and Gestapo.
- Brandenburg Gate: Visit one of the most famous and historical architectural landmarks of Berlin which is just a few minutes’ walk away from the Checkpoint Charlie. The Brandenburg gate symbolizes unity and has been the scene to many significant events in history.
Tips for Visiting Checkpoint Charlie
Here are some tips that should be considered when choosing the time to visit Checkpoint Charlie:
- Visit early in the day: Depending on the season, Checkpoint Charlie may have a few visitors crowding up the area hence to ensure that you get adequate time to glimpse and to also take pictures you must get there early in the morning.
- Utilize the audio guides: A majority of the museum’s visits have audio guides in several languages to make the experience even more enchanting.
- : Get your passport stamped: If you want to get your passport stamped signifying that you are a border crosser of the former state, it is recommended that you carry your ID or passport with you.
- Dress adequately: Both the museum and the surrounding area are rather hot, making it advisable to dress in light clothing.
- Do not take pictures without caution: One should also be careful not to tamper with any of the structures since the place has archaeological potential. When taking pictures of your visit do not engage or portray provocatively to your visit.
It is a mere chance beaming a history tourist and learning more about the events of the Cold War when visiting Checkpoint Charlie in Berlin. This impressive structure has managed to become a living symbol of the people’s strength and their ability to combine their strength. Thus, put on your comfortable shoes, come here and see this checkpoint, this is how history works.
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