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Berlin, The Old And The New

Berlin, The Old And The New

By Josh Hill

The city is steeped in a recent history of political turmoil, war, and social disintegration. Berlin’s sobering history has been embraced and continues to shape the future of the city. Today, the city oozes an unpretentious charm and, ever since the fall of the Berlin Wall, it has become a magnet for artists. A fusion of past and present is visible in the array of architecture the city offers, and its reunification in 1990 has sparked a surge in cultural, social and artistic demonstrations – Berlin’s progressive future is just as arresting as its past. 
 
Charlottenburg Gardens
Historically the summer residence of the Prussian Queen Sophie Charlotte, wife of Frederick I, completed in 1713, is an idyllic look into Germany’s first steps to unification. Its Baroque style was inspired directly by Versailles and is overlooked by the imposing rococo style buildings of the Palace. The garden’s striking geometric design allows for a blissful walk through the tree – lined avenues and a tranquil break at the foot of the ornate central fountain. 
 
Brandenburg Gate 
Originally built upon a gateway into the city, the landmark acted as a symbol of peace upon its completion in 1791. The neo-Classical triumphal arch is a figure point of a whirlpool of change in Berlin following the Second World War. The partitioning of land resulted in the Gate being regarded as a no man’s land between east and west. Presently, the Gate epitomises German reunification, and the site is as stunning in the day as it is mystical at night. 
 
Reichstag 
A pioneering architectural feat at the time, the Parliament building is the pinnacle of Berlin’s expression of old and new. After heavy bombardment during the Second World War, the building was the venue for the German Reunification Ceremony of 1990 which necessitated its reconstruction of 1999. The resulting, famous glass dome rises above the Neo-Baroque architecture like a phoenix rising from the ashes of the Great Wars – the quintessential symbol of the rebirth of Germany. 
 
East Side Gallery 
The world’s largest open-air mural collection was painted by 118 artists from as many as 27 different countries.  The artworks translate the global euphoria and optimism upon the collapse of the great human divider that was the Berlin Wall. The gallery serves as a symbol of hope and friendship following decades of isolation, but also marks the start of the influx of young artists to the city which shaped the city as it is today.
 
Johann König Art Gallery
Perhaps the most tangible exemplar if the massive influx of artists into the city is the art of gallery which opened in 2001 by Johann König at the age of 21. The gallery represents the emerging and established artists of the younger generations, showcasing interdisciplinary exhibitions of concept – orientated projects and cross-media formats. The gallery is but one of many art exhibitions that wholly symbolise the expression of rebirth and newness. 
 
Berlin Television Tower
Built between 1965 and 1969, the tower’s purpose has progressively moved towards being an observation tower and restaurant. At 378m tall, the tower gives 360degree views of the city and visitors can indulge in a variety of luxurious foods in the VIP section. Views from the tower’s many platforms include both the Brandenburg Gate and the Reichstag; an enduring look into Berlin’s rich, defining past in a very modern environment.  

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