Have you ever considered Paris, France as a side trip while in Europe specifically Berlin, Germany and do you want a place with heritage, arts and elegance? Do you need Parkplatz? Then, it’s time to visit Bebelplatz. It lies a square that is a bit off the radar but is in the central part of Berlin and charged with history and architectural beauty. Now that’ve been introduced to Bebelplatz let me tell more a bit more about why you should visit.
A descriptions of Bebelplatz and an introduction on what took place there.
Bebelplatz a public square of Berlin is located in Mitte district and is named after August Bebel, an important socialist of Germany. The history of this square can be traced back to a long time and is the place of many fantastic constructions and monuments. It is a city where most of the architectural structures and cultures around blend the present with the past.
Site of a Once Infamous Book Burning
The square became world famous as it is the place associated with the book burning rally, which was organized by the Nazis in 1933. During that year, censorship of freedom of literature was demonstrated when on 10th May literature books in the Bebelplatz library were burnt.
At present, people could see a postmodern monument created by Micha Ullman: an empty room with the shelves of the burning library behind the glass plate. It is for this reason that this memorial stands as a stark and symbol of the Nazi regime, education and freedom of speech.
Bebelplatz and Buildings That Give a True Estate of Its Presence
Lovers of architecture will definitely be excited at what they are respective to seeing structures surrounding Bebelplatz. Among the most famous architectural monuments, there is the State Opera House more known as Staatsoper Unter den Linden.
The State Opera House began in the 18th century and has had several new facelifts over the years. One of the fanciest opera houses in the world it is also home to top class productions and shows. Besides, even if you’re not going for a show, the building’s façade is worth the visit.
Another beautiful architecture wonder in its vicinity is the Alte Bibliothek, the Old Library, accommodating the Faculty of Law of the Humboldt University. It is neo-Baroque in style, embellished with decorative sculptures and forms an excellent architectural setting to Bebelplatz.
The Bebelplatz Experience
On the Bebelplatz, one should spare time to get acquainted with the great environment and rich history. Here are a few tips to enhance your experience:
1. Visit at Night:
Oh well, Bebelplatz is definitely beautiful looking and even more so at night. Visiting the square in the evening when it will be dark, it is possible to see the original warm glow of the buildings and a beautiful view of the memorial.
2. Attend a Cultural Event:
While in Bebelplatz ,especially on the fountains one can look at occasional cultural activities that may be in progress. Theater plays, concerts, every type of art exhibition from Street-art events ranging from Opera to popular concerts in open air are frequently held in the square due to the availability of proper infrastructure, including stage, lighting, and a huge crowd pullering factor.
3. Explore Nearby Attractions:
Like other Bebelplatz Berlin landmarks, Bebelplatz is well situated other attractions that are of importance. Head a little southwards to Museum Island, this area hosts some of the world most famous museums including the Pergamon Museum and the Neues Museum housing the bust of Nefertiti.
Also it is highly recommended to visit the Brandenburg Gate near and the famous Reichstag building. These are some historical icons that represent Germany as a nation with rather a complicated past and the view of the city from there is incredible as well.
Conclusion
Bebelplatz is not only a place that is located in Berlin but it has deep historical, cultural and architectural significance of the Berlin city. Starting from the centre of the memorial to the burning of books up to the Unique houses around the walls of the square, they are all fun and informative.
If you ever are in Berlin, make sure to visit Bebelplatz, as you get a good feeling for the places between past and present. It is without any doubt a place you will never want to forget once you happened to visit it.
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