They are Berlin, capital of Germany, where one may visit many iconic landmarks and cultural treasures. An example of such a notable monument is the Frederick the Great statue. The significance of this statue from historical and cultural standpoint is what we will be looking at in this blog post.
Who was Frederick the Great?
Frederick the Great (born 1712), became King of Prussia in 1740 and in 1763 raised himself to the title of Elector of Brandenburg, by reference to the claim of his ancestors to the ancient Electorate of the Brandenburgers. Otherwise, he is generally viewed as one of the most influential and important rulers of German history. Frederick made a name for himself in militry, politics and patronage of the arts and sciences. Under Prussia’s king, Germany’s Prussia became one of the important European powers.
The History of the Statue
The statue of Frederick the Great in Berlin is a rich one, something that can be traced all the way back to the late 19th century. Reinhold Begas, known sculptor, created it in 1886 when he was commissioned to design it on the occasion of the 90th birthday of the German Emperor William I. The statue had been a symbol of the legacy of Prussia’s greatest king.
The statue has moved on more than a few occasions in the course of the centuries and been restored on more than one occasion. The building was damaged by war and subsequently removed to be stored safely. It was moved after the war to several places within Berlin before it came to rest in the east sector of the Tiergarten Park in 1980.
Due to its prominent location, historical importance and the fact that it is a frequent destination for the many Berliners and tourists visiting the city, the statue is a popular attraction.
The Symbolism and Design
On top of a granite pedestal is the Frederick the Great statue, majestic in pose and looking down proudly on the king on horse back. It shows Frederick wearing his military uniform, he is holding a baton and is looking in the direction of Unter den Linden boulevard. Statue depicts his status as military leader and carrier of the enlightened absolutism.
Noteworthy is that the statue faces Unter den Linden. This was the icon boulevard, at the heart of royal and cultural life under Frederick. The statue’s look at this important street is representative of the lengths to which the king will remain present in Berlin and in the development of this city.
Frederick the Great’s Legacy
The Frederick statue recalls the mighty impact Frederick the Great had made in a Berlin and Prussian history.
Prussia became a powerful European power because Frederick’s military successes, administrative reforms, and sponsoring of cultural and intellectual advancements. He established universities; he promoted religious tolerance and attracted many philosophers, writers and musicians to the court.
During Frederick’s rule Berlin underwent rapid intellectual and artistic development which helped the movement of Enlightenment flourish in Germany. This is a period, a period of enlightenment which is represented in the statue, and of enlightenment ideals which still govern the society in Germany.
Conclusion
Beyond what it is a tribute to a greatly esteemed leader, the statue of Frederick the Great in Berlin, Germany, is also a monument to a man with a curious bent: for he commissioned some 27 different pictorial representations of himself. It symbolizes the historical importance, cultural effect, and the resulting legacy of a leader in Prussia and Berlin that shaped their future. But as you walk around and explore the wonderful city history and landmarks make sure to visit this famous office for the statue of Frederick the Great and contemplate a bit on all that he left behind.
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