Germany » Berlin

Berlin is the capital and largest city of Germany, in the northeast part of the country. Founded in the 13th century, it was the capital of the kingdom of Prussia from 1701 and the capital of the German Empire (1871–1918), the Weimar Republic (1919–1932), and the Third Reich (1933–1945). The city was divided between 1945 and 1990 into East Berlin and West Berlin, which division grew out of the zones of occupation established at the end of World War II. The Berlin Wall, a wire and concrete barrier, was erected by the East German government in August 1961 and dismantled in November 1989.

In the biggest construction project in Europe since World War II, a New Berlin has appeared. Potsdamer Platz is the most productive project but the most symbolic recent construction is at the Reichstag (location of the German parliament until the rise of Hitler into power). British architect Lord Foster has revitalized the German parliament with a grand glass dome that symbolises the new transparency in German politics that of a nation with nothing to hide.

 

Berlin has regarded itself as a city of knowledge and civilization since the days of Friedrich the Great in the 18th century. The political and cultural developments of the 19th and 20th century are visible throughout Berlin’s cityscape, reflecting both the history of architecture and various approaches to facing up to the consequences of war and destruction.

Berlin regards educational policy as one of its superior tasks, and the reform process begun in Berlin’s schools is being stepped up.

Berlin is one of the most important centres in European politics, culture and science. The city serves as a valuable centre of continental transportation and is home to some of the most famous universities, sport events, orchestras and museums.