Anyone who is interested in visiting the history and culture and art scene of this vibrant city must certainly go to the Berlin East Side Gallery. The East Side gallery is so powerful because it is the longest fall of the Berlin Wall still can having a view to it. However, in this blog post, we will explain why the East Side Gallery needs to be on your list when you with your itinerary, so what you can expect to see, and some tips for making the most of your visit.
What is the East Side Gallery?
The East Side Gallery stretches 1.3 km along the Mühlenstraße in Friedrichshain-Kreuzberg. In 1989, the fall of the wall and artists from all over the world were invited by this historic monument to paint murals on to it. Today, the East Side Gallery contains more than 100 artworks and is the world’s largest outdoor gallery.
The Symbolism and Significance
The East Side Gallery reminds the turbulent history of Berlin and is a reminder of the division which was once there. This artwork shows important messages of freedom, hope and unity of the human spirit. These murals represent a nation in the throes of struggle and dreaming to be united, and doing so, and for visitors, they see what art can do to politics.
What Can You Expect to See?
You find yourself walking along the East Side Gallery and it is filled with a wide variety of art styles and themes. The stories told on each mural are different, as each mural tells a different story about the emotions, thoughts of the artists. The gallery is a splendid tapestry of a stunning creativity, ranging from political statements to abstract creations.
The “Kiss” from Dmitri Vrubel depicting the passionate embrace of Soviet leader Leonid Brezhnev and East German leader Erich Honecker, “Test the Rest” by Birgit Kinder, showing a Trabant car breaking through the wall, and “My God, Help Me to Survive This Deadly Love” by Dimitri Vrubel, an iconic image of Leonid Brezhnev and Erich Honecker locked in a kiss are some of the most famous murals.
Exploring the Gallery
Continuing to walk the gallery, enjoy this time to study and hear the stories behind each piece. One of the murals is restored, another is covered with the marks of time. Since the gallery is outdoors, check the weather and dress accordingly. Also, visiting in quieter hours is worth it as some parts of the wall may be crowded with tourists.
Tips for Visiting
Plan Your Visit
If you have time, before you go you should probably check the official site as well for special events or exhibitions happening at the East Side Gallery. That will help you determining the right time to visit and you can make the most of your visit there.
Bring a Camera
Make sure to take a camera or your smartphone so that you can have something to capture the vibrant murals and the feel of the East Side Gallery. You will have plenty of photo opportunities as you visit.
Take a Guided Tour
A guided tour of the East Side Gallery can teach you more about the history and importance of the gallery itself. The knowledgeable guides can guide you with the help of which you can fully understand the art and its context.
Respect the Artwork
Keep in mind that the East Side Gallery is much more than a touristic attraction, it is an important cultural monument. Do not touch the artwork and think about others who may visit while exploring.
Explore the Surrounding Area
There are a lot of historical and cultural landmarks in the area of the East Side Gallery. After the visit to the gallery, you can spend some time going around Oberbaum Bridge, RAW-Gelände or take a stroll along the banks of the Spree River.
In Conclusion
The East Side Gallery is a trip to the past, for a visit is an experience where you can interact with history and art, the victory of the human spirit. It has also become an icon of both the past and the present for visitors from across the world. Given this, you should definitely pay a visit to the East Side Gallery if you are an art enthusiast, history buff or just curiosity to see Berlin’s cultural heritage.
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