Oberbaum Bridge in Main, Berlin, Germany is much more than a bridge over the Spree that has a significant role to play in today’s hi-tech world of technology. It symbolises the struggle of the city and the joining of East and West Berlin. In this article, you will read about the incredible tale of this famous bridge and learn more about its architecture, history, and place in contemporary Berlin.
This paper aims to highlight the Architecture of the Oberbaum Bridge.
The Oberbaum Bridge represents original Gothic Revival architecture by means of two elaborate red-brick towers and curving arches. Overall this bridge has been constructed at the length of 154 meter and it also has two floor a for movement of vehicles and other floor for pedestrians.
Among the main advantages of visiting the Oberbaum Bridge, it is also worth highlighting the beautiful decorations, such as sculptures, engravings and reliefs of the late XIX century. When you are approaching the bridge be sure to have a close look at the stone sculptures of the city emblem of Berlin – The Bear.
A Bridge with Historical Argument
The Oberbaum Bridge stands now as one of the most beautiful architecture marvels but, it also has historical significance. Constructed in 1894 – 1896, this bridge was designed as a means of crossing available between the districts of Friedrichshain and Kreuzberg that were still separate municipalities.
This crossing was used as a route of the Berlin Wall during Cold War and so represented division of the city. This structure represented East and West Berlin and is currently barriers to both foot and vehicular traffic. It might be noted that up until the construction of the Wall in 1961 the bridge was situated in the interzone of the Friedrichshain and Kreuzberg boroughs.
Contributions of the Bridge in the Collapse of Berlin Wall
When the Berlin Wall came down in1989 the Oberbaum Bridge became the physical and architectural connection between East and West Berlin. It was the gateway for thousands of East Berliners who wanted to visit the western part of the city for the first time in decades; it was a profound historic change of Germany.
Today the bridge symbolizes the division of the city of Berlin and at the same time – its unity and invincibility. It depicts the change from separation to the reunion and as such is has the capability to remind people of what they had to go through and what they are now able to go through.
Looking at the cultural aspect, the Oberbaum Bridge is another important element of the course everybody interested in bridge culture should take.
Despite being also an effective work of architecture, as a historical symbol, the Oberbaum Bridge serves as a platform for the contemporary Berlin culture. The bridge doubles up as a piece of art gallery where the city has numerous graffiti art and the graffiti changes from time to time. The bridge becomes an informal art space where artists are free to create and add to the reputation of Berlin as the city of modern art.
Moreover, the Oberbaum Bridge is frequently used for filming because many films and television programmes have been filmed there. They signified Berlin representation on the silver screen and have perhaps become the most recognizable part of the city.
A walk on the Bridge and its surroundings
While you are at the Oberbaum Bridge, do not just cross, make sure to look around for some time. The bridge joins two active communities: Friedrichshain and Kreuzberg, which offer different numbers of cafes, restaurants, and cultural options. Visit the East Side Gallery where a part of the wall is turned into an open-air art gallery and take great strolls along the River Spree whilst on the pedestrian pathways of the bridge.
To sum up, the Oberbaum Bridge is now and always is an extraordinary view with the great history reflecting the unity of Berlin and the spirit of art. Due to its architectural features, historical and cultural values, the center is an exciting place to visit for the local people as well as for foreign visitors. Stay on the bridge and think about how Berlin developed the way from division to unification and the strength it took to bring Berliners together.
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