Eau de Toilette
Innenstadt
Köln, NRW 50667
+49 00800 8070 8090 (Procter & Gamble Service GmbH)
http://www.4711.com/uk/glocken...
prestigeproducts@de.pgconsumers.com
Review © 2007, Wcities
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Eau de Toilette |
Glockengasse 4711 Innenstadt Köln, NRW 50667 +49 00800 8070 8090 (Procter & Gamble Service GmbH) http://www.4711.com/uk/glocken... prestigeproducts@de.pgconsumers.com |
The giant 4711 sign is probably one of the first things you'll see when you arrive at Cologne Hauptbahnhof. Also while strolling through Ehrenfeld you'll come across the same logo. 4711 is indeed the original eau de cologne, and a trademark of the city. The shop by the opera house is dedicated exclusively to the scent. The atmosphere is elegant, as are the nice sales assistants. Kölnisch Wasser is available in all kinds of bottles and forms and can be gift-wrapped. They have huge bottles, or smaller ones for your handbag or bathroom. The window display is full of gift ideas, and you're sure to find something. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Julio Costa Zambelli |
 Photo: David Humpohl  |
 Photo: Nicole Welling |
 Photo: Andreas Kwiatkowski |
 Photo: Starslate |
 Photo: m.rouvaire.schnappsc |
 Photo: Winnie Teichmann |
Forerunner of modern industrial design |
Huttenstraße 12-19 Berlin, Berlin 10553 +49 (0)30 25 0025 (Touristen Information) http://www.berlin.de/tourismus... |
The AEG Turbine Hall - a turbine production factory built in 1909 for the German electronic giant "AEG" - is deemed to be one of the most revolutionary architectural constructions of the early twentieth century. With its visible steel supports and enormous glass windows, the factory celebrates its function as an industrial workplace rather than hiding behind a mock neo-baroque facade. The huge steel building was designed by architect Peter Behrens (1868-1940), who is credited as being the forefather of modern industrial design. Behrens designed numerous other classic buildings, but the AEG Turbine Hall is regarded as his most important work. Behrens worked on the design of the building together with other influential turn-of-the-century architects such as Walter Gropius and Ludwig Mies van der Rohe, designer of the Neue Nationalgalerie. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: David Benza |
 Photo: Andrew Plested |
 Photo: CharlieBrigante |
 Photo: francesca jakin |
Bronze memorial to the first chancellor |
Bundeskanzlerplatz/Adenauerallee 135-141 Bonn, NRW 53113 |
The scupltor Hubertus von Pilgrim began work on the two metre high bronze head in 1981. It was on display just one year later on the Adenauerallee, in front of the Federal Chancellory. The head of the former mayor of Cologne and first Chancellor of the Federal Republic of Germany stands on a low bronze base. His gaze is directed at the passing cars in the Adenauerallee, which reminds one, as does his gravestone in Bad Honnef, of the Franco-German reconciliation and the fact that Adenauer was a great politician and a great man Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Tom Sie Ho Lee |
Berlin's windswept heart |
Alexanderplatz Berlin, Berlin 10178 +49 (0)30 25 0025 (Touriten Information) |
The original Alexanderplatz (affectionately known as 'Alex' by Berliners) was completely flattened during the War. Its present day appearance is a prime example of East German town planning: a huge, windswept pedestrian area surrounded by featureless 1960s high-rises. But those who are familiar with Alexanderplatz from Alfred Döblin's novel of the same name will find that none of the hustle and bustle of the square has disappeared. Alexanderplatz is still very much a commuters' thoroughfare and is regarded by locals as the true centre of Berlin. Named after Russian Tsar Alexander I who visited the Prussian capital in 1805, Alexanderplatz was at the centre of the mass-demonstrations which brought the Berlin Wall tumbling down in November 1989. Massive redevelopment has now begun under the direction of architect Hans Kohlhoff, but no completion date has been set. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: November Tan |
 Photo: emanuele schivo |
 Photo: JakubJurkowski.com |
Old national gallery |
Bodestraße 1-3 Berlin, Berlin 10178 +49 (0)30 2090 5577 http://www.alte-nationalgaleri... ang@smb.spk-berlin.de |
The Alte Nationalgalerie (Old National Gallery) rises up over Museum Island like an ancient Greek temple. The imposing, neoclassical edifice was designed and built by architect F.A. Stüler between 1866-76 and contains an extensive collection of works by both German and international artists from the 18th and 19th centuries. Visitors can admire masterpieces by French impressionists such as Cézanne, Manet and Renoir, the surreal works of Van Gogh and Münch, and sculptures by the likes of Schadow and Rodin. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Philipp Stiller |
 Photo: Rainer Rzepka |
 Photo: Heath Martin |
 Photo: Maria Estela Soto |
 Photo: terracondannata |
 Photo: Niels Dalum Hansen |
 Photo: Gisela Schlögel |
 Photo: m k |
 Photo: Remi Poirier |
 Photo: Maren |
 Photo: cardano |
 Photo: mt aus b |
 Photo: Stefanie Bütow |
 Photo: george kyris |
 Photo: Alessandra Rullo |
Main station in the west of the city |
Paul-Nevermann-Platz Hamburg, Hamburg 22765 +49 (0)40 3005 1300 (Information für Touristen) http://www.bahn.de |
Rebuilt several times since it was first erected in 1844, Altona station originally stood on the site now occupied by the town hall. In 1898 the station was relocated to its present site, with the bricks from the building used for the construction of the town hall. The Victorian station lasted some 80 years, but was pulled down and replaced by a more modern building in the late 1970s. The station contains numerous shops (including the Mercado shopping centre) and is also connected to the S-Bahn network. This is Hamburg's second busiest station (after Hauptbahnhof) and serves both local and international routes, particularly those heading westwards. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Enkū |
 Photo: calvinbasti |
Angel of Peace |
Prinzregententerrasse Bogenhausen München, Bayern 81675 |
Built in 1896-99 and funded by the City of Munich, this monument celebrates the 25th anniversary of the Treaty of Versailles (1871). The golden mosaics in the hall depict nation, war, peace and victory. The Friedensengel, or Angel of Peace, provides a spectacular view of the city, and is sited above a superb terrace, which is unfortunately marred by heavy traffic. The name 'Friedensengel' in fact glosses over historical reality. The monument portrays Athena, goddess of wisdom and peace, but also goddess of 'strategic' war, and she holds Nike in her hand, the goddess of victory; an allegory illustrating the victorious peace which followed the Franco-German war of 1870-71. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: shunkoh |
 Photo: Chris Cowan |
Still a station, no longer a terminus |
Stresemannstraße / Anhalter Straße Berlin, Berlin 10963 +49 (0)30 25 0025 (Tourist Information) |
The ruins of this railway station, once Berlin's largest, and one of the biggest in Europe, would seem to be a reminder of war damage this city sustained. In fact, the building was only partially destroyed during WWII, but it was decided not to rebuild it, and instead the remnants were blown up. Nowadays the sad façade is the only reminder of this station's former grandeur. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Pavel Osorio Belmon |
 Photo: Andreas Reinhold |
 Photo: Austen Rachlis |
 Photo: Herrwick |
 Photo: Joe |
 Photo: Sophia Tolika |
 Photo: Keith Southam |
The financial district |
Westend Frankfurt, HES 60325 |
Frankfurt's love affair with the world of finance began as long ago as the Middle Ages, when traders from all over Europe brought their wares to the city for sale. Over the past few decades, Frankfurt has developed into one of the world's most important financial metropolises. Most German banks now have their head offices in the Taunus area, as do the European Central Bank and numerous other major international institutions. The wish to be the biggest and the best is reflected in the financial district's skyline, affectionately known by locals as 'Mainhattan' because of its mass of skyscrapers. In September, some of these buildings are open to the public for a 'skyscraper festival', when visitors can climb to the top of the Commerzbank building (258m) and enjoy the view from the twin towers of the Deutsche Bank (155 m) and the Messeturm (256m). Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Daniel George |
Official residence of the German President |
Spreeweg 1 Berlin, Berlin 10557 +49 (0)31 2 0000 |
It's easy to understand why the German President was the first member of the government to officially move to Berlin after reunification. His residence is delightful, the beautiful baroque Bellevue Palace, situated on the banks of the River Spree in the middle of Tiergarten park. The huge lawn behind the palace has been the venue of many a happy garden party, and judging from the noise on certain Saturday evenings—it still is. Erected in 1785, Bellevue has been the symbolic residence of West German Presidents since 1959, even when Bonn was still the official capital of West Germany. The modern building to the south of the palace houses the President's staff and is referred to by Berliners as the "presidential egg" because of its peculiar oval shape. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Rezwan |
 Photo: Ajay Krishnan |
Berlin City Hall |
Rathausstraße Berlin, Berlin 10178 +49 (0)30 2 4010 |
The 'Red City Hall' is how Berliners refer to their town hall. Seat of the Mayor and the Senate since reunification in 1990, the building was also home to East Berlin's local government in the GDR era, although the name actually stems from the reddish colour of its walls rather than from the political leanings of its politicians! Built in 1861-69 by H. F. Waesemann, the design reflects a strong Tuscan influence. Two years after building work was completed, Germany was unified by Kaiser Wilhelm I. Consequently, Berlin became the capital of Germany and its new city hall, the supreme administrative building. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Betagreg |
 Photo: Gary Evans |
 Photo: antisnowhere |
 Photo: Tony Pinho |
 Photo: Laura Bazyn |
Bertolt Brecht's legacy |
Bertolt-Brecht-Platz 1 Theater am Schiffbauerdamm Berlin, Berlin 10117 +49 30 2840 8155 http://www.berliner-ensemble.de theaterkasse@berliner-ensemble.de |
Built in 1880, the Berliner Ensemble stormed to fame in the 1950's under Bertolt Brecht, the greatest German dramatist of the 20th century. The theatre became known for its brilliantly directed political plays at a time when the city was wallowing in political and economic chaos. Yet in the decades after Brecht's death, the Berliner Ensemble lost direction, ploughing out lacklustre performances of Brecht plays under a succession of different directors. Things have changed for the better since director Claus Peymann returned, with theatre-lovers returning in hoards to watch acclaimed adaptations of classic pieces. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Jeff Garrett |
 Photo: lordhightop |
Unforgotten royal palace |
Schlossplatz Berlin, Berlin 10178 +49 (0)30 25 0025 (Touristen Information) http://www.stadtschloss-berlin... |
An intense debate has been going on for years as to whether the Royal Palace should be reconstructed, and now it finally will be. There are plans to make a hotel out of the Palace, with shops and a business center. Built in 1451, the magnificent palace was the residence of the Prussian royal family for centuries. Badly damaged during the War, the East German administration demolished the building in the 1950s, not because the structural damage was irreparable, but because the palace was a much-maligned symbol of 'imperialism'. The space created was used for the East German equivalent of Red Square, known as Schloßplatz, which is dominated by the Palast der Republik, the closest thing the East Germans had to a parliament. The only part of the palace which survived demolition is the famous portal from which Karl Liebknecht proclaimed a Free Socialist Republic in 1918. The portal was moved a few hundred metres and integrated into the Staastsratsgebäude (see photo). Otherwise, visitors can see the foundations, recently unearthed by archaeologists, but they are a poor reminder of what once was. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: David Basanta |
The Berlin Wall |
Pariser Platz Mühlenstraße / Niederkirchnerstraße / Bernauer Straße Berlin, Berlin +49 (0)30 25 0025 (Touristen Information) http://www.die-berliner-mauer.de/ |
Anyone visiting Berlin today would find it hard to imagine that this vibrant and cosmopolitan city was until only recently divided: through its heart ran a wall made of concrete and barbed wire, patrolled by armed guards and protected by a heavily mined death-strip. Erected on 13 August 1961 to halt the outflow of disaffected East German workers, the Wall broke up families and friendships, divided Germany and split Europe in two for nearly three decades. Over 200 people died in (often ingenious) escape attempts. No one will forget the night of 9 November 1989 when the Wall came crashing down. A peaceful revolution put paid to the bankrupt East German regime and Berliners from East and West met in their hundreds of thousands to dance on top of the Wall and celebrate the end of division. In the months following its fall, the Wall was bulldozed to the ground and the land where it stood auctioned off to the highest bidder. Not much of the original Wall is left today, with only one or two sections saved as a permanent reminder of the past. The longest and most impressive stretch can be seen at the East Side Gallery, while another section—this time full of chisel holes and graffiti—runs along Niederkirchner Straße just south of Potsdamer Platz. Hoards of tourists still flock to Checkpoint Charlie, but there is not much left to see except a gripping exhibition at Haus am Checkpoint Charlie. The Wall Memorial on Bernauer Straße is well worth a visit, while a more sombre moment could be spent contemplating the line of white crosses on Ebertstraße behind the Reichstag, dedicated to all those who died trying to flee East German tyranny. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Steve Johnson |
 Photo: Indranil Ain |
 Photo: factoids |
 Photo: antonio |
 Photo: Tore Dobberstein |
 Photo: funkenschlag |
 Photo: Bettina |
 Photo: Damian Murphy |
 Photo: Roger Kitson |
Futuristic landmark |
Schlossstraße 17 Berlin, Berlin 12163 +49 (0)30 790 8380 |
Steglitz's Restaurant Tower known as Bierpinsel is strangely reminiscent of the bridge of an aircraft carrier, rising up from the city motorway which connects with Schlossstraße, one of Western Berlin's busiest shopping streets. Built in 1972-76 by the same architects that constructed the futuristic International Conference Centre (ICC), the bright red Restaurant Tower has become one of Steglitz's most recognisable landmarks. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Shadow Walker |
 Photo: h.kleinschmidt |
 Photo: Zaphod Beeblebrox |
Bockenheim's watchtower |
Bockenheimer Landstraße Bockenheim Frankfurt am Main, HES 60325 |
The Bockenheim watchtower is the only one of Frankfurt's Medieval towers without a fortified courtyard and water system. Constructed in 1434-35, the building acted as the lookout tower along the road that leads to Cologne. The Gothic tower, which was built in a cylindrical form, has a pyramid shaped roof and battlements. The half-timbered guard house is octagonal in shape and was accessible only by retractable steps. If need be, a large number of defenders could take cover in the room. There is a market at the foot of the tower once a week. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Arnim Schulz |
Historical Station from 1844 |
Am Hauptbahnhof Bonn, NRW 53111 http://www.bahn.de |
Until the year 1844, there was only a small railway station in Bonn, which served as a termination point. As the railways were extended towards the south, the station had to be rebuilt and made much bigger. The building process began in 1882, and was completed in 1885. This building, done in Italian Renaissance style with sandstone and brick facades, still serves as the main station today. The old station was rebuilt in Rolandseck after it was torn down, where it now serves as a culture and art centre. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: artimorty |
 Photo: desiree tan |
 Photo: Lightmash |
Modern Opera House with Interesting Metal Sculpture |
Am Boesellagerhof 1 Bonn, NRW 53111 +49 228 77 8008 oper@bonn.de |
This modern building was built in 1965. It is reached by stairs from the Rhine embankment. The green facade can be seen from a distance when walking alongside the Rhine. Special performances by famous conductors and singers are still financed by the state. The metal sculpture 'Ikarus', a gift from the Haribo owner Dr. Hans Riegel in 1993, stands on a specially laid green base in front of the main entrance. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Pradeep Noronha |
 Photo: Ryan McEuen |
Guided tours of Cologne / Bonn Airport |
Waldstraße 147 Wahn Cologne, NRW 51147 +49 2203 400 http://www.koeln-bonn-airport.de/ info@koeln-bonn-airport.de |
Ever wondered what it is like behind the scenes of an airport, or the goings on before the aeroplane takes off? Then you should take the tour around Cologne Airport. The visitor centre in the Cologne/ Bonn airport will guide interested groups, weekdays at the following times: 9 am, 11 am, 1pm and 3 pm, around the Konrad-Adenauer airport. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Nicole Torday |
 Photo: Giorgos Karafergias |
 Photo: Clemens Orth |
 Photo: howie22 |
 Photo: Maciek B |
 Photo: Ollie Gillman |
 Photo: cosplay shooter |
 Photo: rootdown12 |
 Photo: Javi Vázquez |
 Photo: Jill Alcibar |
 Photo: Davide P. (Italy) |
The Brandenburg Gate: symbol of freedom |
Am Pariser Platz Berlin, Berlin 10117 +49 (0)30 25 0025 (Touristen Information) |
Germany's most recognisable symbol is not as large as many visitors expect, yet its history is rich and fascinating. Built in 1791, the Brandenburg Gate was modelled on the entrance to the Acropolis in Athens. The Quadriga statue on top of the Gate—designed by sculptor Gottfried Schadow—represents Victoria, the Goddess of Peace, riding a four-horse chariot. This was one of Berlin's original 14 city gates, yet the only remaining evidence of the other gates are the names of underground stations such as Kottbusser Tor and Schlesisches Tor. The Brandenburg Gate and Pariser Platz have played centre stage to numerous turbulent historical events. In 1806 Napoleonic troops took the Quadriga statue back to Paris as a war trophy, only to have it returned to Berlin when the French lost the war. And during the Nazi era Pariser Platz was the Nazis' favourite backdrop for torch-lit processions and military parades. The Gate sustained heavy damage during World War II and was restored in the 1950s. After the Berlin Wall was erected in 1961, the Brandenburg Gate became inaccessible to the citizens of both Germanys and came to be regarded as the symbol of Cold War divisions. When the Wall fell on 9 November 1989, hundreds of thousands flocked here to celebrate the end of the Cold War and the beginning of a new world order. The north wing of the Gate houses a 'quiet room' where visitors are invited to sit and contemplate in peace. The south wing houses a tourist information office (10a-6p Monday-Sunday). Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: láy |
 Photo: Priya Reddy |
A legend reborn |
Kurfürstendamm 18-19 Berlin, Berlin 10707 +49 (0)30 882 6911 |
Not much is left of the original Café Kranzler. Founded some 175 years ago, Café Kranzler swiftly gained the reputation of being one of the city's finest cafés and went on to become a major tourist attraction in its own right. But the café has now fallen victim to the massive redevelopment programme which has been changing the face of Berlin since the fall of the Wall. While the new location offers splendid views over Berlin's most prestigious shopping street, the decor is devoid of charm. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Sharif Thib |
 Photo: nerys1 |
See the sights, hear the sounds |
John-Foster-Dulles Allee The House of World Cultures Berlin, Berlin 10557 +49 (0)30 25 0025 (Touristen Information) |
This is not necessarily a sight to see, but rather a sound to hear. When Berlin celebrated its 750th anniversary in 1987, the city gave itself a special present. If you're in the Tiergarten park or up on the roof of the Reichstag, you'll be able to hear it at midday and at 6pm. Following the sounds with your eyes, you may be able to see the 42-metre tower, clad in sparkling granite and with an elegant wing-shaped roof. This is the Carillon, designed by musicologist Jeffery A. Bossin. With 68 bells chiming in four octaves, this is the forth largest carillon in the world and the biggest in Europe. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Herman Pretorius |
 Photo: Sven Bauer |
Memories of the Cold War |
Friedrichstraße 43-45 (Zimmerstrasse) Berlin, Berlin 10969 +49 (0)30 253 7250 http://www.mauermuseum.de/ |
The ultimate symbol of the Cold War which divided Europe and the world for four decades, the Berlin Wall is still the main tourist attraction in the German capital. And Checkpoint Charlie, the former border crossing, is the place many tourists head for first. Yet this world-famous monument is slightly disappointing on first sight. The original border post was demolished and all that remains nowadays is a signpost bearing the words, 'You are now leaving the American sector' and a replica of a watchtower from 1961. The only thing really worth seeing is the Haus am Checkpoint Charlie museum. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Eirik Figenschau Bol |
 Photo: ildisarmato |
 Photo: photo-artiste |
 Photo: abe.kamal |
 Photo: Mark McNulty |
 Photo: perryolf |
 Photo: Sarah Faizi |
 Photo: Alvaro |
 Photo: Steve Vaughan |
 Photo: Jonathan Grant |
 Photo: Stefan Kramer |
 Photo: Dave Forrest |
 Photo: First half of Rob |
 Photo: Alexander Flórez |
 Photo: podjezicanin |
Ponies in the city |
Viktoriastraße 13-18 Berlin, Berlin 12105 +49 30 751 7244 |
Inside the alternative factory Ufa-Fabrik e.V., in the heart of Berlin Tempelhof, there is a children's farm, open all week except Mondays. The farm keeps ponies, wild pigs, ducks, geese and hens, two ferrets, rabbits and guinea pigs, and also has a pond and a play area for children, as well as fruit trees. There is also a cafe and a health food shop. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Anna Wittel |
Cologne's City Hall - partly rebuilt. |
Rathausplatz Köln, NRW 50667 |
Visitors to the Kölner Rathaus are almost certain to see one of the many newly-married couples who have their wedding photographs taken in front of the beautiful historic facade after taking their vows. Having been damaged during the Second World War, part of the 14th-century Renaissance building was rebuilt. Cologne artisans concentrated particularly on restoring the Rathaus tower, and thanks to their donations visitors today can hear the bells ringing just as they did before. Statues of emperors, popes, poets and academics - and also of women's rights campaigners - look down from the tower on the busy square below. The consoles of the tower are also decorated with the likenesses of various figures from the vast periods that span the tower's history. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Magdalena Oremek |
 Photo: Dimii |
World's Largest Convertible Stadium |
Mörfelder Landstraße 362 Frankfurt am Main 60598 http://www.commerzbankarena.de office@commerzbank-arena.de |
Constructed from 2002 to 2005, the Commerzbank Arena is one of the world's largest convertible sports venues. The transparent roof gives the stadium an impressive cathedral-like feel, making this a worthy replacement of the old Waldstadion. The Stadium seats over 45,000 and there are several VIP boxes. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: simia |
 Photo: fotogarten.net |
 Photo: alexander röder |
 Photo: Jens Hiller |
 Photo: vissersdcm |
Merchants' road on a former dam |
Stephansplatz, Neustadt Hamburg, Hamburg 20354 +49 (0)40 3005 1300 (Information für Touristen) |
The first mention of this merchants' road, which runs along a dam head, dates from 1252. The picturesque residential area is quite characteristic of Hamburg, and it is situated between the Nikolai and Katharinen Canals. In 1646, the original developments on the Cremon were almost completely destroyed by the fire that ravished the city. The warehouses in this area lost importance when the Speicherstadt was built, so some of them were torn down and replaced by the Kontor houses. The Cremon house at No. 11 is a fine example of these "new" buildings. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: schattenwerk.ch |
Cultural no-man's-land? |
Kemperplatz Berlin, Berlin 10875 +49 (0)30 25 0025 (Touristen Information) http://www.smb.spk-berlin.de/o... |
Post-war urban planners loathed the gloomy, densely populated inner-city ghettos - relics of 19th-century poverty—which were until recently prevalent in most major European cities. They dreamt of open spaces and expansive city centres. With this goal in mind, architects began work in 1960 to construct a modern art and cultural centre in the heart of West Berlin. Scharoun's futuristic Philharmonie, Mies van der Rohe's Neue Nationalgalerie and the Gemäldegalerie were all erected as part of a 'Cultural Forum'. Later additions were the State Library, the Museum of Arts and Crafts and the Musical Instruments Museum. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Snibor |
Hamburg's third biggest station |
Theodor-Storm-Straße Hamburg, Hamburg 22149 +49 (0)40 3005 1300 (Touristen Information) |
Located close to the Congress Centre, the University and Planten un Blomen park, Dammtor is the no.1 stop for thousands of business people, students and culture-vultures. The third biggest station in the city (after Hauptbahnhof and Bahnhof Altona) is also a stopping-off point for long-distance trains coming from Germany and abroad. The building, a striking turn-of-the-century construction, is currently being refurbished and will soon house a major shopping centre. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: ahoihamburg |
 Photo: Anica Hess |
 Photo: philip stier |
West Berlin's opera house |
Bismarckstraße 35 Berlin, Berlin 10627 +49 (0)30 343 8401 http://www.deutscheoperberlin.... info@deutscheoperberlin.de |
Beauty or beast? Some adore the windowless concrete sixties facade, others loathe it. The auditorium has none of the splendour of the likes of La Scala Milan, yet all seats, even the cheap ones, have good views of the stage and the acoustics are excellent. The repertoire is extensive and features classic German and Italian works as well as contemporary pieces. Several productions have been running for decades with great success. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Francisco Anzola |
 Photo: DREAMS in vOiDnEsS |
 Photo: francescc |
 Photo: Rachel Ambrose |
Most Famous Mountain of the Siebengebirge Range |
Königin-Sophie-Straße 31 Königswinter, NRW 53604 http://www.drachenfelsbahn-koe... |
Atop the Drachenfels, which can be climbed on foot or by railway (children can also ride on a donkey), the old castle ruins of the Drachenfels and Drachenburg Castle are located. The Trachyt rock of the Drachenfels was first mined in the 13th and 14th centuries for building material - to build Cologne Cathedral for example. The old legends about the Drachenfels are also exciting - a dragon was once supposed to have lived here, who sank a Rhine ship with a breath of fire. It is not clear whether the mountain got its name from the first city count Gottfried von Drachenfels, who lived here from 1176, or from the Trachyt stone. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Norbert |
 Photo: Hardo Müller |
 Photo: dl3sba |
 Photo: aukurant |
 Photo: Bob ten Kley |
Art on the Berlin Wall |
Oberbaumbrücke (Mühlenstraße) Berlin, Berlin 10243 +49 (0)30 251 7159 http://www.eastsidegallery.com eastsidegallery@eastsidegallery.com |
When you think of Berlin, the first word likely to spring to mind is Wall. But over a decade after being torn down by angry East Germans, there is not much of the Berlin Wall left standing in present-day Berlin. The longest section of the Wall to be spared (1.3km) runs parallel to the River Spree between Kreuzberg in the West and Friedrichshain in the East. In the months following the fall of the Wall in 1989, 118 artists from all over the world flocked here to pay their artistic tribute to the downfall of communism. The result—an open-air gallery containing a host of colourful and imaginative images—some satirical, some shocking and others unintelligible. The East Side Gallery is a must for first-time visitors to the city. The barren wasteland which surrounds the Wall is oddly fitting and gives you a good idea of how the Wall, surrounded by a 10 metre-wide, heavily mined death strip, would have appeared several decades ago. Yet the current condition of the gallery gives cause for concern. Many of the paintings have been disfigured by souvenir-hunters keen to take a chunk of Wall home with them, while the weather has taken its toll on the rest. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Chris Nicolson |
 Photo: nikda |
 Photo: Carl Spiers Photogra |
 Photo: Sarah Ragan |
 Photo: Paolo Zanella |
 Photo: Eddie O. |
 Photo: Nic de la Rambelje |
 Photo: Renata Motta |
 Photo: erinsadventures |
 Photo: andreas Kahle |
 Photo: Garrett O'Donoghue |
 Photo: hypnoskull |
 Photo: Christopher Monaghan |
 Photo: Johannes H |
 Photo: Larissa Pissarra |
 Photo: Pablo |
 Photo: Dgerm |
 Photo: NoSoma |
An urban-planning nightmare |
Ernst-Reuter-Platz Berlin, Berlin 10587 +49 (0)30 25 0025 (Touristen Information) |
It does have a certain appeal—but only from a bird's eye view, with the inner-city traffic gliding swiftly around the large, oval island. Surrounded by a ring of faceless high-rises, a huge fountain springs from the centre of the roundabout, spurting water high into the heavens. In the 1950s, urban architecture was all about creating open spaces for open-minded cities. Once considered a jewel of modernism, Ernst-Reuter-Platz is nowadays regarded as an urban-planning catastrophe. A relic of the days when cars were deemed more important than people. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Ataru ++Plus++ |
Outdated tourist attraction |
Tauentzienstr. 9-12 Berlin, Berlin 10789 +49 (0)30 2649 7940 (Management) http://europacenterberlin.com |
In the days when Berlin was a divided city, the Europa Center was West Berlin's touristic highlight, fulfilling every wish a visitor could dream of. After a visit to the Tourist Infomation Centre on Budapester Straße, visitors could take the lift up to the observation platform on top of the building for a bird's eye view over the city. They could then eat lunch at the fountain and spend the whole afternoon shopping in the mall. The evening could be whiled away in the various restaurants and pubs in the basement. Nowadays, Potsdamer Platz has superceded the Europa Center as Berlin's major all-in-one tourist attraction. Indeed, nothing has changed at the Europa Center for years. The multicoloured lights and hazy glass mirrors are tacky and outdated in comparison to Potsdamer Platz's glitzy glass and steel look. The panorama terrace under the Mercedes star is also closed, albeit temporarily. In fact, it's amazing that this place is still so popular! Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: mayki86 |
 Photo: Swiatek Wojtkowiak |
Grand Football Stadium |
Sylvesterallee 7 Hamburg, Hamburg 22525 +49 (0)40 41 5503 http://www.hsv-aolarena.de/ |
The FIFA World Cup Stadium Hamburg (formerly the Volksparkstadion) is one of Germany's most impressive sports arenas. Rebuilt in 1998, it can now seat over 50,000 spectators. The Stadium hosted the 2006 World Cup finals and is currently home to FC Hamburg football team and the Blue Devil's American football team as well as being a venue for major concerts. The VIP boxes are particularly good for corporate entertainment. The most famous match to have taken place here was the legendary 1974 World Cup duel between West and East Germany. It was the only time that these two teams ever played each other, and, to everybody's amazement, the East Germans won 1-0. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: William A. Avellan |
 Photo: e-n-n-o |
Former Headquarters of the Bundestag and MP's |
Adenauerallee Bad Godesberg Bonn, NRW 53113 |
When Bonn was still the federal capital of Germany, political events generally unfolded in the Government quarter, the area around the old Bundestag, erected just over ten years ago. Scattered over the area are many Embassies and the headquarters of state delegations, which are still partly occupied. The so-called Lange Eugen is also located directly by the Rhine, which previously contained MPs offices. It is Bonn's highest building and offers a view of the whole city. You can relax in the cafe right at the top, which offers a picturesque view of Bonn. In clear weather you can even see Cologne Cathedral. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Nina Wöltgen |
An old fort used for rehearsals |
Neusser Wall Nordstadt Köln, NRW 50670 |
Fort X (meaning 10) is an old Prussian brick fortress, built between 1816 and 1840. It is the only one of seven fortifications which still survives in Cologne. After the end of its military role, a rose garden was planted, which gave the whole edifice a romantic touch. Just as contrary to the original purpose of the fort, it is presently used by Cologne's bands for rehearsals as well as, from time to time, for performances. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Iris |
 Photo: consta |
Frankfurt airport |
Frankfurt Airport-Center Flughafen, HES 60549 +49 69 6900 http://www.flughafen-frankfurt... info@fraport.de |
Massively extended in the 1970s and with a second terminal added in the 1980s, Frankfurt Airport (FRA) is now one of Europe's busiest and most important airports. Known as the 'gateway to Europe', passengers from all over the world arrive, depart or change planes here. A plane takes off or lands every two minutes and around 45 million people pass through the airport every year. Around 108 airlines fly to and from Frankfurt. With some 14,000 underground parking spaces, parking at Frankfurt Airport is not a problem. Apart from the usual airport amenities like shops and a multitude of restaurants and bars, there is also an airport clinic, a play area, a prayer room and dog kennels. The airport is connected to Frankfurt city centre by S-Bahn (regional railway) and by express trains which depart from the airport station every 15 minutes. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: mumphalee |
 Photo: Yvon Liu |
 Photo: Anne Mocarski |
 Photo: Christoph Kummer |
 Photo: Suzie Austin |
 Photo: Jens Kuehnemann |
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 Photo: Jody Shipley |
 Photo: Fabio de Donno |
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Mozart, Wagner, Verdi, Offenbach and Berg |
Untermainanlage 11 Frankfurt am Main, HES 60311 +49 69 2 1202 http://www.oper-frankfurt.de info@oper-frankfurt.de |
Opera is a burning issue in Frankfurt in more ways than one. Outsiders tend to associate it with the Alte Oper or the Opernbühne, but both were completely destroyed in the Second World War. A new building was opened in 1951 but burned to the ground in 1987, being reopened some four years later. The stucco sculpting on the ceiling of the foyer is of particular architectural interest. Reminscent of cloud formations, it is visible from the outside through a large window. The works of the six operatic stalwarts are staged here more than anything else, though they also alternate with more recent composers. Instead of a permanent programme, the Oper Frankfurt currently employs a 'staggione' system, staging performances in groups. The reputation of the opera house used to be a cut above the rest, but is currently on the wane as a result of internal disputes, despite some spectacular productions. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Franz Gabriel |
 Photo: The Jesslinger Family |
 Photo: zamboniland |
 Photo: Aquilina |
 Photo: Andrew Faherty |
 Photo: Ron del Rosario |
 Photo: Claire |
 Photo: Everette Curry |
 Photo: hstraske |
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 Photo: Glaucia Binda |
Frankfurt Stock Exchange |
Börsenplatz 4 Frankfurt am Main, HES 60313 +49 69 2111 1670 / +49 69 2111 1515 http://www.exchange.de info@deutsche-boerse.com |
The Frankfurt Stock Exchange (FSE) is the world's third largest market for stocks, shares and foreign currencies. With a turnover of 75% of all shares traded, it is also the largest stock exchange in Germany. As long ago as the 16th century, several traders made a pact to establish exchange rates for the various currencies coming into the city during trade fairs. This was the forerunner of the FSE. The stock exchange building - a tribute to the High Renaissance style - stems from 1879 when it replaced the old building next to Paulskirche church. Visitors can watch the traders in action from a balcony above the trading floor - a fascinating spectacle. A large screen shows the movements of the DAX (the German share index), while individual share prices can be seen on monitors. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: pete britt |
 Photo: Hong Thov |
 Photo: darkskyz |
 Photo: Trek the World |
 Photo: Natchie |
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 Photo: Tobias Leeger |
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University for free thinkers |
Kaiserswerther Straße 16-18 Dahlem Berlin, Berlin 14195 +49 30 8387 0000 http://www.fu-berlin.de |
Founded by free-thinking members of East Berlin's Humboldt Universität who could not come to terms with socialist dictates, the Free University became a refuge for academics fleeing communism in the early days of the Cold War. Situated in upper-class Dahlem, the university was originally housed in several of the beautiful villas which are abundant in the area. However, as it grew in popularity, it was necessary to expand and many new buildings were constructed during the 1960s and 1970s. One of the newer constructions typical of the university is the Humanities Department, a long building made of rusty steel plates. Many despise the building with its endless corridors and impenetrable labyrinth of rooms ("your lecture will be in room JK 217/b" !!!), others are enthusiastic about the green courtyards and the rooftop terraces. Just like academia, architecture can be controversial too. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: maurizio.mwg |
 Photo: Jan Stadler |
Three historic kilometers |
Von dem nordlichen Teil der Mitte bis Hallesches Tor im Kreuzberg Berlin, Berlin 10117/10969 +49 (0)30 25 0025 (Touristen Information) |
Friedrichstraße is Berlin's answer to the Champs Elysées, Oxford Street or Fifth Avenue, a vibrant melting pot where history, culture, entertainment and fashion meet. Before the fall of the Wall, the southern section of Friedrichstraße was located in the West, and the northern part in the East. Beginning at Mehringplatz in Kreuzberg, the three kilometer-long street leads through the heart of the city centre, past the former border crossing at Checkpoint Charlie, to Oranienburger Tor, unified Berlin's pulsating nightlife district. Historically, the area around Stadtmitte underground station used to be Berlin's premier shopping district. The crossroads at Leipziger Straße were lined with swanky boutiques before wartime bombs left their deadly mark. The new shopping district is now centred around Französische Straße underground station, and includes the fabulous Galeries Lafayette, the exclusive Quartier 206 and the awe-inspiring Friedrichstadtpassagen shopping mall - three of Berlin's new architectural highlights. The northern section of the street leads into theatre town. A magnet for theatre-goers since the 19th century, visitors still pour into places like the Friedrichstadtpalast, Berliner Ensemble, Deutsches Theater and Kammerspiele. Have fun! Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Manohar.de |
Traditional brewery |
Am Hof 12 Köln, NRW 50667 http://www.frueh.de gastronomie@frueh.de |
Located a stone's throw from the Dom and Hohe Straße, Früh am Dom is a real institution that attracts both tourists and locals alike. The 'Früh' is to Cologne what the Hofbräuhaus is to Munich, except of course, that the beer comes in much smaller glasses! As well as serving up freshly-brewed Kölsch beer, there is a menu which contains a fine selection of local and national specialties. A must for any visitor. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Paul Marsh |
 Photo: rigolo78 |
 Photo: Kai-ser |
 Photo: ktrmeadow |
Building bridges |
Königstraße (Wannsee) Berlin, Berlin 14109 +49 (0)30 25 0025 (Touristen Information) |
For decades it bridged the River Havel without ever really connecting one side with the other. This was where West Berlin ended and East Germany started, the inpenetrable Iron Curtain drawn through the middle of the bridge. During the Cold War, this was the place where spies were exchanged on foggy November mornings. Then suddenly, ten years ago, this majestic construction underwent a sudden changed of image—becoming one of the most potent symbols of reunification—a bridge that connected and unified. Situated between Berlin and Potsdam, it now offers visitors a unique view over the River Havel and the surrounding forests where you can spot the occasional castle, church or pavilion. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: erlebnisstaub |
 Photo: cooperlady1300 |
 Photo: Baggy & Cindy |
 Photo: Fernando Miceli |
 Photo: Manfred Deichmann |
 Photo: fantasio4 |
The lure of the East |
Hackescher Markt (Oranienburger Straße / Rosenthaler Straße) Berlin, Berlin 10178 +49 (0)30 25 0025 (Touristen Information) |
In the early 19th century, Hackescher Markt was still a muddy swamp situated outside Berlin's city gates. Yet as the industrial revolution gained hold, new businesses and booming industries set up shop here, bringing wealth and prosperity to the whole area. Prominent examples of companies which started out in Hackescher Markt include Aschinger Brewery and Wertheim department store. Hackescher Markt's main claim to fame is, however, its S-Bahn station. Constructed at the height of the railway boom in the late 19th century, with a red-tiled facade, mosaics and rounded windows, this is one of Berlin's most attractive stations. Originally known as 'Bahnhof Börse' (Stock Exchange Station) because of its proximity to the Berlin Stock Exchange, the square in front of the station was renamed 'Marx-Engels-Platz' by party apparatchiks during the socialist era. Nowadays, the station is used primarily by visitors to the nearby Hackesche Höfe complex, a labyrinth of courtyards brimming with cafés, restaurants, boutiques and art galleries. A cinema, theatre and the Oranienburger Straße nightlife strip complete the list of attractions in this increasingly popular (and tourist-ridden) district. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Anton |
 Photo: Sebastian Waters |
 Photo: palegrayhorizons |
 Photo: Dean Russell |
 Photo: sylviedjinn |
 Photo: sew-mad |
 Photo: Ch0pper |
 Photo: fledertier |
 Photo: Angela Raelene Knowl |
 Photo: Caterina Mauri |
 Photo: Julio César Velasco |
The fast track into the future. |
Bahnhofstraße Köln, Nordrhein-Westfalen 50667 +49 (0)180 599 6633 http://www.hauptbahnhof-muench... |
Cologne's Hauptbahnhof is Germany's most important station. Approximately 200 000 people travel through the station each day. Given the Hauptbahnhof's importance, it is not surprising that the super-high-speed train Thalys to Paris runs from Cologne. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: blondiemcl |
 Photo: Tom Sie Ho Lee |
 Photo: factoids |
 Photo: Blue Petunia |
 Photo: chrissi.doster |
 Photo: Gerald |
 Photo: VirtualSpotter |
 Photo: never the prom queen |
 Photo: Osvaldo Rainero |
 Photo: Marc Fabian Höll |
Memorial to honour the author |
Schwanenmarkt Karlstadt Dusseldorf, NRW 40213 |
This memorial was founded by Stefan Kaminsky, a patron from Munich, on the occasion of the 125th anniversary of Heinrich Heine's death. The Düsseldorf sculptor Bert Gerresheim created a "Fragemal" (Question memorial), a puzzling combination of Heine's cracked death mask, different allusions to Heine's life and quotes from his work, of which the quotes from die Trommel des Tambours le Grand are particularly clear. This piece of art work on the Schwanenmarkt shows the conflicting attitudes of the city and Germans in general, since this was the trigger for many such controversies. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Niels Glugla |
For men only! |
Reeperbahn Hamburg, Hamburg 20359 |
This street in the heart of Hamburg's red-light district is one of the city's most infamous addresses. Small traders used to do business here in the 19th century, but the horizontal trade which now dominates the district has made them disappear one by one. Nowadays, this little lane off Davidstraße is lined by establishments where sparsely-dressed girls sit in dimly-lit windows awaiting male customers. When it gets dark, the red street lamps and lingerie add an almost romantic feel to the place. Not every customer is welcome here - drunkards and those looking for a fight quickly find themselves cooled off by a bucket full of water, and there is no access to Herbertstraße for women! Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: indi_ffo |
bridge nicknamed "mouse trap" |
Hauptbahnhof (Innenstadt/Deutz) Cologne, NRW 50667 |
Already in the mid-19th century there was a bridge connecting the two banks of the Rhein near to the Kölner Dom. This bridge was jokingly known to the inhabitants of the city as the Muusfall - the Mousetrap. At the beginning of the 20th century, it had to give way to the Hohenzollernbrücke, a half-timbered arch bridge which was designed to carry the railway. Although the was destroyed in 1945 during the last few days of the Second World War, it was later rebuilt and improved. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: clacksnot |
 Photo: Joachim Gross |
 Photo: Jörg Formella |
 Photo: Franz Patzig |
 Photo: Milen Dimov |
 Photo: José E. Arévalo |
Swaying on the bridge |
Holbeinsteg Frankfurt am Main, HES 60311 +49 69 2123 8800 (tourism office) info@tcf.frankfurt.de |
In 1990, a second footbridge was built over the river Main to connect the district of Sachsenhausen with the city. This modern suspension bridge was constructed by a well-known Frankfurt architect and hangs from red and blue cables which, in turn, hang from two pairs of pylons. The views from the bridge are great: in one direction you have a great view of the museums, and in the other, you can marvel at the impressive Frankfurt skyline. But be careful - the bridge sways! Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: ivan slunjski |
 Photo: Robert Müller |
Memorial for Murdered Jews of Europe |
Cora-Berliner-Straße 1 Berlin, Berlin 10117 +49 (0)30 200 7660 / +49 (0)30 2639 4336 http://www.holocaust-mahnmal.d... info@stiftung-denkmal.de |
Sixty years after World War II, the city of Berlin unveiled its monument to the Jewish victims of the crimes of the Third Reich. An international symbol of German atrocities, this controversial Holocaust memorial, located next to the Brandenburger Tor and near the buried remains of Hitler's undergeround bunker, was more than 15 years in the making. Designed by U.S. architect Peter Eisenman, the memorial's grid of 2,711 gray concrete slabs covers a vast area in the heart of Berlin. The slabs, or stelae, stand at varied heights of up to 15 feet, creating the sense of a stark concrete forest, through which visitors can wander on uneven cobblestone pathways. The memorial has sparked fierce discussion and controversy. Critcs argue that the abstract design and the failure to acknowledge the Third Reich's other, non-Jewish victims might alienate visitors to the multi-million dollar project. Regardless, this memorial definitely deserves a visit. An underground visitor center (Ort der Information) offers background information, admission is free of charge. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: jodimarie. |
 Photo: Alfonso Para |
 Photo: Doug Wolff |
 Photo: rrafa |
 Photo: Simona Bariselli |
 Photo: Marco Meyer |
 Photo: *mb** |
 Photo: Ulla Hennig |
 Photo: Angus Jenkins |
 Photo: David Goering |
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 Photo: Sally Holland |
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A legend reborn |
Unter den Linden 77 Berlin, Berlin 10117 +49 (0)30 2261 x0 http://www.hotel-adlon.de Adlon@Kempinski.com |
This prestigious hotel next to the Brandenburg Gate was reputed to be the best in the world in the early 20th century. Famous guests included Charlie Chaplin, Marlene Dietrich and the Tsar of Russia. Sadly, all this came to an end when the building was destroyed in the final days of the Second World War. The new Hotel Adlon, erected on the same plot of land, is an almost exact copy of its predecessor, but only on the outside. Behind the historic facade is a modern and luxurious hotel equipped with all creature comforts. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Andreas Lezgus |
 Photo: Kurt Kragh Sørensen |
 Photo: Marta Pino |
 Photo: Lealah Pollock |
 Photo: Otu Ekanem |
 Photo: Sam Hiser |
 Photo: EyeQ78 |
 Photo: Eric Reiss |
 Photo: beeboy23 |
 Photo: James Allen |
 Photo: Glenn Garriock |
 Photo: Margarita Seguias |
The pregnant oyster |
John-Foster-Dulles-Allee 10 Berlin, Berlin 10557 +49 (0)30 39 7870 http://www.hkw.de info@hkw.de |
Built in 1957 as the American pavillion for the International Exhibition of Construction and Design, the building fondly known by Berliners as the "pregnant oyster" (because of its curiously-shaped roof) is today home to the House of World Cultures. The building was used as a congress centre for many years, yet when the roof collapsed in 1980, its future was more than uncertain. Eventually, however, it was rebuilt for Berlin's 750th anniversary celebrations and today serves as a centre for ethnic art and culture with regular exhibitions, concerts, congresses and theatre performances. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: World100F |
Berlin's oldest university |
Unter den Linden 6 Berlin, Berlin 10099 +49 (0)30 2 0930 http://www.hu-berlin.de/ |
The Humboldt University is the oldest of Berlin's three universities. Originally planned as a palace for King Friedrich II, the king eventually decided give the building to his brother Prince Heinrich and to move into his beloved Sanssouci Palace in Potsdam. Designed by master architect Georg Wenzeslaus von Knobelsdorff, construction took place in 1748-66. In 1809 the palace was handed over to the newly founded Friedrich-Wilhelm-University, which at the time had just 247 students. Today the university boasts over 30,000 students and bares the name of its founder, Wilhelm von Humboldt. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Chiara Caso |
 Photo: Maik Schlobohm |
 Photo: roozbehmaadani |
 Photo: Topher McCulloch |
 Photo: Marcus Grbac |
 Photo: Caspar Borkowsky |
International Congress Centre |
Messedamm 22 Berlin, Berlin 14055 +49 (0)30 3038 3000 http://www.icc-berlin.de/ sales@icc-berlin.de |
The International Congress Centre (ICC)—Berlin's largest events venue—opened in the same year that Star Wars first appeared on the silver screen. And funnily enough, the ICC looks amazingly similar to some of the spaceships shown in the seventies science-fiction classic. Berliners like to compare it to many things and the building is also fondly (or less fondly) known as 'Noah's Ark' or 'Battleship Charlottenburg'. More beast than beauty, it is the perfect match for its immediate environment: a tangle of concrete bridges, tunnels, motorways and railway tracks. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Grzegorz Surmacz |
Bridge guard |
Oberkasseler Brücke Altstadt Dusseldorf, NRW 40213 |
The sculptured Saint Nepomuk is located on the east side of the Oberkasseler bridge and was created by Bert Gerresheim. The theme of this statue is "silent revolution", as the patron saint of Bohemia, Johannes von Nepomuk, was made a martyr of the Silent Revolution in the 14th century. He refused to agree to political misuse of power even while being tortured. The similarities of his features to the Danzig priest Jerzy Popieluszko are intended, since Popieluszko was interrogated, tortured and then drowned in similar circumstances to Nepomuk. An inscription on the feet of this figure remembers the Düsseldorf communist Hilarius Gilges, who was killed by the Nazis in 1933 and was discovered at the foot of the Oberkasseler bridge. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Jonathan Lewis |
Square with Offices, Restaurants and Cafes |
Kaiserplatz Bonn, NRW 53113 |
The Kaiserplatz is situated close to the main station. Along the square, with its shady trees, there are offices, cafes and the well known Kaiserpassage. In addition, a mobile antique shop sets up its wooden hut here in the summer. The Kaiserplatz is generally a very popular area for students, who come here to grab a beer or a snack. You also get a super view of the Poppelsdorfer Castle with its surrounding parks from the Kaiserplatz. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Brett Spangler |
Monumental socialist boulevard |
Karl-Marx-Allee (Alexanderplatz - Strausberger Platz - Frankfurter Tor) Berlin, Berlin 10243 +49 (0)30 25 0025 |