Fascinating world of the Berlin Wall welcome. So if you’re either an absolute beginner or have simply set out to discover the history behind all of the legendary structures of the ancient world, you’ve indeed found yourself in the right place. Below we will walk you through all that you need to know in order to take on a walking tour along the Berlin Wall. Let’s dive in!
1. The History and Significance of the Berlin Wall
In 1961, the Berlin Wall was an actual physical barrier that split East and West Berlin of the Cold War. It was a sign of a split world, keeping families from each other, friends from each other, even from streets for almost three decades. A walking tour without understanding of its historical context and how it impacted the people’s lives would be enriching.
2. Where to Start Your Walking Tour
Especially when visiting the Berlin Wall, first you should go to the Berlin Wall Memorial and Documentation Center. At the visitor center is a historical exhibition and informative displays that will add value to your trip. This will help to establish the rest of your tour.
2.1 Berlin Wall Memorial and Documentation Center
Located on Bernauer Strasse is Berlin Wall Memorial and Documentation Center, where the history of the wall is poignantly relived. See the preserved sections, observe the watchtowers and interact with multimedia exhibits to learn about the individuals touched by the division.
3. Berlin Wall Must Visit Locations
Along the Berlin Wall one follows the path and its several important locations are awaiting for you to explore. The wall history is told also on these sites, which gives unique views to the history of the wall and the reunification struggle.
3.1 East Side Gallery
1.3 km long piece of Berlin Wall with more than a hundred murals, which makes it a section of the East Side Gallery. After the wall’s fall in 1989 these lively artworks were created by artists from all over the world to symbolize unity and freedom of the people.
3.2 Checkpoint Charlie
Checkpoint Charlie was in the center of the city of Berlin and at that time, one of the most famous crossing points between East and West Berlin. Today, at Checkpoint Charlie, it serves as a symbol and you may visit Checkpoint Charlie Museum to learn more about Cold War life.
3.3 Berlin Wall Memorial Park
The Berlin Wall Memorial Park is an open-air park museum of a considerable part of the former death strip. It allows you to examine the preserved parts of the wall, the Chapel of Reconciliation and the Window of Remembrance, which remembers those who died whilst trying to cross.
4. Tips for the Walking Tour
What a good idea right? Well now that you know of some of the main places to see, here are a few top tips of what to do on a Berlin Wall walking tour.
- You will be walking quite quite considerable distances, so wear comfortable shoes.
- Use a map or even a navigation app to keep track and to be sure to avoid any major sites.
- If you could, join a guided tour that gives you depth (personal stories, history) of what isn’t there in Berlin Wall.
- If you are unable to plan visits at the late afternoon or early morning, reserve them at times like 9am or 7pm to avoid mobs and get a more immersive experience.
- If you do an extended tour, carry some water and snacks.
Conclusion
A good way to embrace Berlin Wall is to embark on a walking tour. Understanding the history and using the Berlin Wall Memorial as a starting point, visiting key sites and following our hints, you’ll be all set to jump into this iconic structure’s thirst past. Prepare to take your place within a fascinating story of mankind’s effort to free himself, unite himself and reconcile himself. Enjoy your tour!
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