Every time having a stroll around a lively city of Berlin, it becomes impossible not to pay attention to Karl-Marx-Allee – the avenue that breathes the spirit of history and luxury. This giant avenue is in the central Friedrichshain district and represents a vivid history and architectural work of the city. Now it is about time to look at the individual features that make Karl-Marx-Allee what it is: an iconic and must-see tourist sight.
The past of Karl-Marx-Allee
Formerly called Stalinallee, the boulevard was built between 1952 and 1961 to represent the socialist power in the GDR. It was political in that its planning and architecture sought to display the strength and aspirations of the Communists and to generate an image of a glorious socialist society in the large.
Originally christened the Stalinallee, the boulevard’s name was soon changed to Karl-Marx-Allee in 1961 following new waves of destalinization after the death of Joseph Stalin, the Soviet leader. However, the fact remains that the change of name cannot affect its architectural importance for the destiny of the city.
Monumental Architecture
Karl-Marx-Allee is more than 2km long and is well known for its imposing monumental architecture that has elements of different types of the post-war period. Most of the buildings lining the boulevard have been constructed in the Stalinist neoclassical, Bauhaus and the later GDR aesthetic.
Among the most outstanding features of the boulevard you are going to see is the very broad and avenue and tree-lined central walking strip called the ‘’Socialist Boulevard’’ or the ‘’Boulevard of Unity.” This space was intended to express both aspects of socialist realities and to be available for citizens to congregate.
Berlin’s Classicist Facades
This area must have been anything like the elevated Karl-Marx-Allee where in the first segment classicized fronts were incorporated in Soviet style to depict the greatness of the new socialist capital. These buildings with »Perlenkudden«, massive columns and generous balconies feature a remarkable transition of architecture from pre-war Berlin to GDR.
Bauhaus Influence
When you are walking along the boulevard, you will also observe the presence of Bauhaus principles especially in the later structures. The two structures have smooth curves, large openings, and reduced ornaments which are hall-marks of Bauhaus movement on the GDR structures.
GDR Modernism
The last few blocks descending from Alexanderplatz to Frankfurter Tor or Karl-Marx-Allee neatly enshrines the GDR modernist style. These buildings that are depicted by extent forms of construction, distinct sharp edges and new form ends representing new archetypes of architectural design of the several last years of GDR period.
Map of Important Landmarks and Points of Interest Frankfurter Tor
Among all the remarkable spots of Karl-Marx-Allee one of the most famous is Frankfurter Tor also known as Frankfurt Gate. It is the eastern landmark to the boulevard and a symbol for the former East Berlin as this twin towers entrance suggest. You can just walk through the underpass that has been set for pedestrians to have a feel of some interesting art work and history.
Kino International
Karl-Marx-Allee also features Kino International, a legendary movie theatre which has united a variety of architectural features. It was effective in showcasing previous film productions during the GDR period and up to the present time, this place remains to be of cultural importance of film showings.
Cafes, Restaurants, and Shops
As one walk though Karl-Marx-Allee take a pause and explore and take a break and enjoy different cafes restaurants and shopping outlets in the area. These place provide a combination of global food chains, local food and beverage and specialty shops.
7 things to remember when walking around Karl-Marx-Allee.
- Take your time: Karl-Marx-Allee is better to stroll and give a leisurely look on the wide pedestrian walkway in order to observe the architecture and recalling the history of the boulevard.
- Visit during different seasons: Throughout the year, the boulevard goes through some transformations because the flowers are planted all over during spring and autumn while holidays like Christmas are decorated during the winter.
- Explore nearby neighborhoods: Friedrichshain, the locale of Karl-Marx-Allee is one of the newest districts in Berlin that reflects bohemian aura, numerous bars and clubs, and street art. If you go for a walk around the area – there will be a lot of interesting places to check.
- Learn about the history: However, a guided tour at Karl-Marx-Allee or visiting nearby DDR Museum will help better understand the story of this magnificent boulevard.
Whilst walking through Karl-Marx-Allee you are able to view the combination of history and architectural styles and cultural importance that is Karl-Marx-Allee in Berlin. Take pleasure in appreciating its majesty, sink in its glamour and let this giant road make or mar your impression.
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