Germany’s capital city Berlin has perhaps experienced changes in its capital buildings that many other cities across the world can only dream of. The century of history of Germany and its capital Berlin is more than a song of a great empire’s rise and fall and a nation’s division and reunification; it also has the romance of great capital buildings. It is therefore the aim of this article to look at the well-known capital buildings of Berlin and the history behind them.
Reichstag Building: A Symbol of Democracy
In its essence, the seat of the German Parliament, the Reichstag Building, occupying an outstanding place in the capital of the Federal Republic of Germany, Berlin. : Constructed in 1894, the building once housed the German Empire’s parliament and was essentially destroyed in 1933 by a fire.
After the end of the Second World War and the division of the city of Berlin, the Reichstag Building became an object of the Soviet sector of the city. Long abandon throughout the period of the Cold War, it resurged to the spotlight after the fall of the Berlin Wall in 1989 and German unity.
Finally it was the Bundestag of the Federal Republic of Germany the formerly known as the German Reich which after renovation and overhaul became the official meeting place of the German parliament . Its transparent exterior glass dome through which the inside of the building is visible from outside symbolises openness and that transparency in governance. It even allows visitors to go to the covering roof of the dome where they could get an incredible look at a city scenery, particularly at Berlin city.
Tourist Tip:
Although the entrance to the building is free of charge, it is advisable to book the access beforehand in order not to spend much time in queues. However, do not forget to carry along a photo I.D card for security reasons at the venue.
Charlottenburg Palace: A Look at the Prussian Monarchy
Dropping the political theme we move to the regal area with Charlottenburg Palace. Built in the late 17th century as the summer palace for the queen Sofie Charlotte, wife of the elector Frederick III, the palace represents one of the best examples and examples of Baroque and Rococo styles.
Sophisticated furniture and numerous gardens have always associated Charlottenburg Palace with the manifestations of the Prussian royal power throughout centuries. It has been a witness to shrewd battles and has remained a witness to periods of growth and periods of stagnation.
Today, a tour of the palace allows one to take a peek into beautifully furnished rooms that are the Porcelain Cabinet and the Golden Gallery. The palace gardens are designed more as an oasis where the visitor has an opportunity to enjoy the natural environment.
Tourist Tip:
For a more elaborate experience consider joining a guided tour to get some deeper insight of the palace and its importance. There are also audio tours for self-guide which may be hired.
Brandenburg Gate: A Symbol of Unity
Well of course, any overview of the architectural marvels in Berlin cannot be without the mention of the Brandenburg gate. This triumphal arch is a neoclassical structure erected at the end of the eighteenth century; it is dedicated to the German reunification.
Until the fall of the Berlin wall Brandenburg gate was a symbol of the divided city, and physically straddled both east and west berlin. They have seen political protests, festival events and even significant events in human history such as the coming down of the Berlin Wall.
After the reunification of the two Germany this great architectural wonder was restored and issued out to signify unity and freedom. Nowadays it remains an important object of South Korean architecture and is a popular place among the people. Due to this situation at the end of Unter den Linden boulevard towards the centre of Berlin, the gate necessarily becomes a focus of attention in connection with various significant events and festivities.
Tourist Tip:
Go the Brandenburg Gate in the evening when the structure is well lit, and this gives a good feeling. Nearby you might also wish to visit for Reflection at the Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe.
Conclusion
Berlin is the capital city of Germany and the building of this nation best illustrate the historical background of Germany and its people. While the Reichstag Building symbolizes democracy, Charlottenburg Palace reflecting regal elegance and the Brandenburg Gate standing for unity all history unfolded in each monument.
During a tour in Berlin , make sure that you spend some time taking a round at these capital buildings and enhance your tour of the town with the history that is beset in these structures. By their design and history, they are the examples of Berlin history and a promise of further evolution.
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