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 |
 Photo: Jared Martin |
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 Photo: schlonz82 |
 Photo: Jody Shipley |
 Photo: Fabio de Donno |
 Photo: Alex Ioannidis |
 Photo: 茵雅 刘 |
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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 |
 Photo: Jesse Chen |
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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 |
 Photo: VeraYuan |
 Photo: Tobias Leeger |
 Photo: JS ést la! |
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 (Touristen Information) |
After the War, both the Eastern and Western sectors of Berlin began a massive reconstruction programme to repair the damage inflicted by war. In 1959, East Berlin's mayor, Friedrich Ebert, laid the foundation stone for a flagship building project—a monumental boulevard called Stalinallee. The street, named after the great Russian dictator, was to contain spacious apartments for workers, as well as a tourist hotel and an enormous cinema, known today as the International. Stalinallee immediately gained notoriety as the scene of a bloody revolt on 17th June 1953, when builders and construction workers demonstrated against the government. The rebellion was quashed with tanks and resulted in enormous loss of life. Renamed Karl-Marx-Allee after Stalin's death in 1961, the boulevard is just as impressive today as the day it was completed. Lined with monumental eight-storey buildings in the wedding cake style popular at the time, it is also extremely broad—for a reason. The street needed to be wide enough to hold thousands of goose-stepping soldiers, tanks and other military vehicles for East Germany's annual May Day parade. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Charles Turner |
13th century city gate |
Karlsplatz (Stachus) Innenstadt München, Bayern 80335 |
Built between 1285-1347, Karlstor served as Munich's western city gate until Prince Karl Theodor ordered the city walls to be demolished in 1791. Only the gate was left standing and was renamed after the prince. In 1899-1902 Karlsplatz was redesigned by the architect Gabriel von Siedl. The gate was incorporated as the centrepiece of the neo-baroque square, which now also features a stunning fountain erected in 1972. Karlstor marks the border between the old and new parts of town. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: mo_niazi |
Shoppers' paradise |
Kurfurstendamm Karree Berlin, Berlin 10707 +49 (0)30 25 0025 (Tourist Information) |
This busy thoroughfare began as a riding path in the 16th century, but these days is considered as a shopper's paradise. In the 1920s, this street was known for its rowdy bars and dance halls. By the 1940s, most of it was destroyed. Kurfurstendamm is a 3.5 kilometer long boulevard, 53 meters wide and lined on both sides with wide pavements that are ideal for walking. It is lined with boutiques, theatres, coffeehouses, department stores, restaurants, luxury hotels, and art galleries. It looks marvelous by night because of all the lights from the shops. It is a favorite stopover for snacks. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: gerbo.berlin |
 Photo: Thorsten Voigt |
 Photo: Nseries rules |
 Photo: Martin Memmel |
 Photo: BinayakB |
 Photo: Ludwig Gatzke |
 Photo: SUNFLECKR |
 Photo: mildewvn |
 Photo: Stefan Felten |
 Photo: Eva Zillmann |
 Photo: retscher |
 Photo: badblog.espionage |
Imagination with Legos |
LEGOLAND Deutschland Freizeitpark GmbH LEGOLAND Allee Günzburg, Germany 89312 +1 49 8221 700 700 http://www.legoland.de/?lc=en info@legoland.de |
Children can explore their imaginations in this lego inspired theme park, "Heroes wanted!" Become an explorer, a knight or construct your own creations at this colorful, fun-filled attraction in southern Germany between Muninch and Stuttgart. Legoland has all the roller coasters and rides of an amusement park, but with a touch of creativity. It's an interactive experience for the whole family in a life-sized world of make believe. Tickets: 25-30 EUR Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: reebA |
Buildings as symbols |
Leipziger Straße 48 Berlin, Berlin 10117 +49(0)30 25 0025 (Touriste Information) |
In the Cold War era, when the Wall divided Berlin into two utterly different worlds, buildings were more than just simple bricks and mortar—they were political symbols. The Axel Springer Tower—headquarters of the powerful Springer media empire—for example, was a provocative gesture to the socialist East. Rising 68 meters above the Wall and visible throughout East Berlin, the building was the equivalent of a V-sign to the Orwellian East, a statue to the freedom of the Western press. Undeterred, the Eastern authorities' answer was to construct a line of 25-storey buildings to hide the offensive Springer Tower. Built along Leipziger Straße, the high-rise estate was considered a "model" socialist living quarter, containing everything a citizen could possibly wish for, from supermarkets to hospitals. The result, however, was a dreary and depressing concrete jungle, whose only saving grace is the beautiful baroque colonnade situated in its centre. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Casper Tromp |
Hotel and leisure ship |
Vorsetzen LV 13 Hamburg, Hamburg 20459 +49 (0)40 36 2553 http://www.das-feuerschiff.de LV13@Das-Feuerschiff.de |
Transformed by its owner, Captain Wulf Hoffmann, into a venue for up to 250 guests, the Feuerschiff ship was built in England and originally served as a floating lighthouse. Now it is resident in Hamburg and serves as a pub, bar, restaurant and hotel all in one. Guests can enjoy great jazz concerts and cabaret on board, accompanied by a lovely meal. Six of the cabins have been renovated and can now put up guests for the night. A small motor boat runs tours around the harbour and along the River Elbe. See website for details. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Patrick Heinecke |
University of Munich |
Geschwister-Scholl-Platz 1 Maxvorstadt München, Bayern 80539 +49 89 2 1800 http://www.uni-muenchen.de |
Founded in 1472 by Ludwig the Rich in Ingolstadt, the university was moved to Landshut in 1802 and then to Munich in 1826. The building is a highly symmetrical structure with obvious Renaissance influences. The Große Aula (Great Hall) on the first floor and the atrium with the memorial to the Weiße Rose (the White Rose, a student resistance movement inspired by the Scholl sisters) are particularly worth a visit. With some 60,000 students and 20 faculties, the university is the largest in Germany. Dr Frankenstein was one of its alumni! Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: r_a_y |
Once a Royal Palace, Today the Main Post Office |
Münsterplatz 17 Bonn, NRW 53111 |
This wonderful building borders the north west side of the Münsterplatz. It was built in 1876. Till today it is known as the Royal Palace. In those days, the building was the living quarters of the founder dean Rademacher. The post office symbol can be seen in the gable of the Baroque canon house, and the rebuilding and cleaning measures, which were started in 1997, were finished in the year 2000. You can even see the nice facade from the glass department store Wehmeyer, which is next to the post office building. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Dirk Borchers |
Modern junction |
Konrad-Adenauer-Platz 14 Innenstadt Dusseldorf, NRW 40210 +49 211 1 9419 http://www.bahn.de |
On the site where today's Düsseldorf main train station stands, the "Central People's station" was erected in 1891. Between 1934 and 1936 a new station building was built, which has become, thanks to many modernisation and renovation measures, one of Düsseldorf's most modern buildings. Today, 1130 trains on average come here each day and 150,000 passengers pass through. To make the Main Station as pleasant as possible, there is a wide variety of shops and services available here, which range from cafés and Deutsche Bahn (German Rail) service points to magazine stands. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Dave |
 Photo: Angeline Mah |
Shopping and Entertainment |
Markt Bonn, NRW 53111 |
In the Middle Ages, this was Bonn's trading centre. Even today, traders put up stalls and sell fruits and vegetables. Many musical, charitable and multi-cultural events take place here in the summer. Most of these open air events are free. People also go to the Market Square because there are many cafes and restaurants with tables placed outdoors. There are also three cinemas and many shops on the edge of the square. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Alex O2 |
 Photo: shooterbonn |
 Photo: Michel Degener |
 Photo: José L. Bittencourt |
New Cologne media center |
Im MediaPark 7 Nordstadt Köln, NRW 50670 +49 0221 5743 7400 http://www.mediapark.de/ |
Designed by Canadian architect Eberhard Zeidler, the Mediapark was inspired by the town hall square in Siena. Seven-storey blocks form a semicircle around the square, which borders on an artificial lake. For years, the city has wanted this to be a district for media businesses. The blocks are still partly empty. The eye-catching Cinedom, a large domed cinema, is a magnet for the public. Agfa and GEW have set up their business here, and others are sure to follow. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: tkramer |
 Photo: Andreas Dittes |
 Photo: wombat fz50 |
 Photo: Stefan Fels |
 Photo: hobes_231 |
 Photo: Jörg Retterath |
 Photo: Joanita Hafermalz |
 Photo: mpdude |
 Photo: A-vy |
Oh Lord won't you buy me a Mercedes Benz? |
Kaiserplatz Frankfurt am Main, HES 60311 +49 69 2123 8800 (tourism office) info@tcf.frankfurt.de |
The Mercedes showroom on Kaiserplatz became symbolic of the 1950s economical miracle in Germany. Frankfurt's most notorious prostitute, Rosemarie Nitribitt, used to park her Merc here before crossing the road to pick up clients in the Frankfurter Hof Hotel opposite. Even today, the semi-circular glass facade is an outstanding example of classical modernism. The showroom has recently undergone major renevation work and has been brought in line with 21st century tastes. If you haven't got enough cash to buy the latest Mercedes, maybe you could manage to splash out on one of the baseball caps, umbrellas or scarves sold here. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: suvarn |
Munich airport |
Erdinger Moos München, Bayern 85326 +49 89 975 00 http://www.munich-airport.de/ |
Built in 1992 by a team of international architects, Munich Airport (MUC) is ultra-modern yet also simple and understated, and is widely regarded as one of the most impressive modern airports in the world. About 15 million passengers pass through each year, making Munich one of the busiest airports in Europe. Nearly 100 airlines fly to and from Munich. Major carriers include Air France, Air Canada, British Airways, Lufthansa and United Airlines. Parking: Munich Airport has numerous short stay car parks (EUR 3 per hour) and several underground garages for longer stays (EUR 15 per day). Facilities: Terminal 1 contains all the usual airport amenities like restaurants, bars and a multitude of shops. The Kempinski Airport Hotel and the Munich Airport Center, a ritzy conference-cum-leisure centre, are located between terminals one and two. Transport to and from the airport: The car journey to the city centre (on the A9 or A92) takes 45 minutes on a good day, but as the route tends to be very congested, it is easier to use the S-Bahn (urban railway). Trains run every 10 minutes and stop at almost every inner-city station. The journey to the Hauptbahnhof (main station) takes 41 minutes. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Christiaan Ploeger |
 Photo: serega:) |
 Photo: Mario Cutroneo |
 Photo: Florian Kubo |
 Photo: Yvon Liu |
 Photo: Christian Beirle Gon |
 Photo: Alena Davis |
 Photo: Barnie |
 Photo: Jo Schmaltz |
 Photo: Dan Morgan1 |
 Photo: Darryl McCutcheon |
 Photo: Stefan Podkowinski |
The Most Lively Square in Bonn |
Münsterplatz Bonn, NRW 53111 |
In the Middle Ages, Münsterplatz was very lively. It is still the most happening area of the city. The Beethoven Memorial, the Basilica, the old Main Post Office are all situated here, as are some department stores. Various events also take place here throughout the year, such as festivals, craft markets, fairs, rallies and of course the large Christmas Market. The long established Milchpavillon as well as the traditional pub Hähnchen are also found here. Situated only a few minutes away from the main station, the Münsterplatz is the first sight many visitors see. The tourist information office is also located close to the main post office building. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: navayoindigo |
 Photo: JürgenW |
 Photo: Juliana Vaz |
 Photo: Karsten Kneese |
 Photo: anabarros2 |
Neptune Fountain |
Panoramastraße Berlin, Berlin 10178 +49 (0)30 25 0025 (Touristen Information) |
Strolling through the windswept square between the TV Tower, the Town Hall and the Palast der Republik, you may unexpectedly stumble across an exquisite baroque fountain known as the Neptunbrunnen (Neptune Fountain). Built a hundred years ago and severely damaged during the War, it was removed from its original site close to the former Royal Palace, thoroughly restored and then re-erected at Alexanderplatz. Surrounded by faceless socialist architecture, the intricate fountain seems slightly out of place here, yet this simply adds to its fascination. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Liat Leshem |
 Photo: Carolien van Leeuwen |
 Photo: Johan Foster |
 Photo: Sarah Bopp |
New town hall |
Marienplatz 8 Innenstadt München, Bayern 80331 +49 89 2 3300 |
One of Munich's best-known landmarks, the neo-gothic Neues Rathaus (New Town Hall) was built during the period of architectural revival in Germany from 1867-1909. Although it is now an unmistakable part of the cityscape, its architectural style causes controversy even today. The carillon is built into the tower and performs at 11a and 5p every day, with 32 figures portraying a knightly joust and dance. There are additional performances between May and October. The viewing point on the ninth floor can be reached by lift. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Adil Katchi |
 Photo: Laura S. Beckers |
 Photo: Luiz Guilherme Del F |
 Photo: Chen Wu |
 Photo: Margaret and Julie |
 Photo: Jenny Loehr |
Napoleonic war memorial |
Karolinenplatz Maxvorstadt München, Bayern 80333 |
Designed and built by Leo von Klenze, the obelisk on Karolinenplatz was originally intended to be sited on Odeonsplatz. Yet in 1833 it became clear to Crown Prince Ludwig that Karolinenplatz needed a strong focal point, and the 29m-high obelisk fitted the bill perfectly. The statue - a memorial to over 20,000 Bavarian soldiers who died during Napoleon's Russian campaign - contains a number of metal plates made from melted down Bavarian cannons. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Hee_and_Su |
 Photo: Yaniv Nahoum |
 Photo: Gannon Hubbard |
 Photo: jin001988 |
 Photo: alefbetac |
 Photo: caliparisien |
 Photo: Jan Busch |
Double-decker bridge |
Am Oberbaum Mühlenstraße / Stralauer Allee Berlin, Berlin 10243 +49 (0)30 25 0025 (Touristen Information) |
The buses are not the only double-deckers in Berlin. There is also a double-decker bridge, the Oberbaumbrücke, which spans the River Spree between Friedrichshain and Kreuzberg. Traffic speeds along the lower part of the bridge while trains steam over the upper section. Built a hundred years ago in the red-brick gothic style popular at the time, the Oberbaumbrücke is crowned by two towers. The bridge got its name from the tree-trunks which were used to shut down the river to traffic at night. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Henry Garson |
 Photo: Simon Taylor |
 Photo: Sven Hoffmann |
 Photo: the-horse-is-gone |
 Photo: V. Koeditz |
 Photo: maqkse |
 Photo: Astrid Koennecke |
 Photo: Andrea Vicentini |
 Photo: Monique |
 Photo: AnyMotion |
Historic town centre |
Breite Straße 32 Berlin, Berlin 13597 +49 (0)30 333 8377 http://www.ag-altstadt-spandau... |
Situated to the west of Berlin, the ancient town of Spandau has long since been engulfed by its larger neighbour. Spared during the war, the historic town centre situated around Reformation Square and St. Nicholas Church is one of greater Berlin's most beautiful spots. As it is closed to traffic, visitors can wander undisturbed though the narrow lanes and admire the small, bourgeois town houses. Old Spandau is particularly romantic in the winter months when visitors can browse around the Christmas Market, accompanied by the sound of trumpet concerts performed on top of St. Nicholas church. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Thorsten Thees |
Frankfurt's first bridge |
Verlängerung der Kurt-Schumacher-Straße Frankfurt, HES 60313 |
The Alte Bruecke (Old bridge) was the first and only bridge in Frankfurt until 1869. Although a bridge was first constructed on this site in 1222, there must have already been some form of crossing the river Main as this was where Karl the Great managed to escape with his troops. Throughout the century the bridge, which formed part of an important trade route, was destroyed and rebuilt many times. In 1945 the bridge was blown and was temporarily repaired and later rebuilt and renovated. On the north side of the bridge there is a memorial dating from the 14th century in the form of a crucifix, marking the place where criminals were thrown to their death into the river. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: www.minphotoart.com |
 Photo: kikaruna |
The old Town Hall in Bergen |
Marktstraße Frankfurt am Main, HES 60388 +49 61 093 2609 |
The small town of Bergen, which now belongs to the city of Frankfurt, has the traffic route of the traders to thank for its economic position. During the first half of the 14th century a law hall and market hall were built here. Finally in the 16th century the function of these places was changed by the town hall. A solid half-timbered construction with a 5-sided renaissance oriole was put in place in the massive gothic ground hall between 1520-30. The baroque roof with its weather vanes originates from 1704. Above the westerly gates there is a Fratzenstein, a late gothic head. A Heimatmuseum (Regional Museum) has been open to visitors since 1959. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Julia |
 Photo: Stephanie Lin |
The old town hall |
Marienplatz 15 München, Bayern 80331 |
Only the Saalbau (the main hall) and the tower remain of the Old Town Hall. The tower was first erected on Marienplatz in 1180 as a watchtower to defend the eastern side of the city. It was destroyed several times over the centuries and reconstructed in the early 1970s according to architect's plans from the year 1462. The tower is now also home to the Toy Museum. One of the most beautiful Gothic halls in the country, the Saalbau was built in 1470-80 by Jörg von Halsbach, who also designed the Frauenkirche. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Hillary Uren |
 Photo: Tawny Herron |
 Photo: cosmo_mark |
 Photo: Steven Berger |
 Photo: Amanda Rahn |
 Photo: Dan Skinner |
 Photo: Cian O'Sullivan |
Viennese flair and Prussian grandeur |
Bebelplatz (Unter den Linden) Berlin, Berlin 10117 +49 (0)30 25 0025 (Touristen Information) |
Formerly the royal library, this elegant baroque building on Bebelplatz is affectionately known by Berliners as the 'commode', in reference to the building's similarity to an antique chest of drawers. Less cruel is the comparison with classic Viennese architecture: the design was based upon plans drawn up for the majestic Hofburg Palace in Vienna and as the Prussians worked faster than the Austrians, the copy was finished before the original! A fine example of Viennese flair combined with Prussian grandiosity, the building was severely damaged during the War, but was reconstructed and reopened in 1969. The Alte Bibliotek is now used as a lecture theatre by the Humboldt University. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Stef te Winkel |
the entertainment centre of Cologne |
Alter Markt Altstadt Köln, NRW 50667 |
The narrow medieval houses between the Hohenzollern Bridge and the Severins Bridge were once the trading centre of the city. Where craftsmen and merchants, since approximately the 10th century, displayed and offered their wares, has now become the entertainment quarter. Today the former market squares are still busy, especially the Altermarkt. At Heumarkt, archaeologists display finds which tell the story of life in the town in years gone by, while the Alter Markt is a traditional meeting-place during festivals, markets and the opening of the Karneval. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Saleem Haddad |
 Photo: martha andrus |
 Photo: Chiara Shenoy |
 Photo: Gabriela Rives |
 Photo: Tony Pinho |
 Photo: Brian Snelson |
 Photo: Katie Laviolette |
 Photo: Jeffrey L. |
 Photo: Lunadine |
Historic old town |
Heinrich-Heine-Allee Dusseldorf, NRW 40213 |
Sometimes known as 'the longest bar in the world' Dusseldorf's Altstadt - the Old Town - contains some 200 bars, cafés and restaurants. Despite its relatively small size, the crowds flock here at the weekend, filling most of the bars to bursting point. But the Altstadt isn't just for night owls. Row upon row of atmospheric old town houses have been converted into shops and boutiques offering all a discerning shopper could possibly wish for. Culture vultures are also spoilt for choice, with places like the Hetjens Museum, Film Museum, Stadtmuseum, Heinrich Heine Institute and Palais Wittgenstein attracting visitors from far and wide. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Ryan Joly |
 Photo: Ray Espinal |
 Photo: Ingo Steinke |
 Photo: Iulia Lefter |
 Photo: Dryade |
 Photo: Bryan Bajema |
From a palace to a café |
Unter den Linden 5 Berlin, Berlin 10117 +49 (0)30 20 2683 http://www.opernpalais.de/ info@opernpalais.de |
Situated next-door to the State Opera House, the Opernpalais, built in 1733-37 by F.W.Diterichs, is connected to the older Crown Prince's Palace by an arched bridge. As the city residence of Friedrich III's three daughters, the building was long referred to as the "Princess' Palace". Nowadays, it is home to two restaurants and the Opera Café. The latter provides a rare oppurtunity to enjoy 19th century-style luxuries in modern-day Berlin. The traditional coffee and cakes, as well as the decor complete with brass fittings and oil paintings, all serve to add to the regal, old-world charm of the café. The patio garden makes this a particularly popular destination in the summer. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Maciek from Berlin |
Laughter and tears |
Daumstr. 85 Berlin, Berlin 13599 +49 (0)30 2061 0011 http://www.traenenpalast.de booking@traenenpalast.de |
Those who spent hours waiting in the gloomy East German customs clearance office at Friedrichstraße station in the years when Berlin was a divided city would never have dreamt that it would become a protected historical building. The station is now open to everyone, and the customs office is a popular cultural centre. The Tränenpalast (Palace of Tears) got its name from the tears shed here when friends or relatives bode farewell to each other after an all-too-brief visit. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: David Pitman |
 Photo: Allan Hailstone |
Berlin's reception room |
Pariser Platz Berlin, 25657 10117 +49 (0)30 25 0025 (Touristen information) |
The pristine flower-beds and gushing fountains which fill historic Pariser Platz lend a touch of rural elegance to the urban jungle. Once known as "the Emperor's reception room", Pariser Platz has been the first stop on visitors' itineries since the 18th century. Located at the end of Berlin's grandiose boulevard, Unter den Linden, wartime destruction left much of Pariser Platz flattened, with only the Brandenburg Gate left standing. Yet money has flooded into Berlin since reunification and the square is being slowly restored to its former splendour. Its original rectangular form has been retained, yet the buildings which now line it to the north and south are a curious mixture of deeply nostalgic and strikingly modern architecture. Hotel Adlon, for example, is an exact copy of the original building, while Frank O.Gehry's DG Bank and the Academy of Arts are eye-catching examples of contemporary design. Just two gaps remain to be filled, and when the American and French embassies are completed, Pariser Platz will be laid with cobble stones and shall once again be a worthy reception room for millions of visitors to the new German capital. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: ani ene |
Everything under one roof! |
Mattentwiete 2 Hamburg, Hamburg 20457 +49 (0)40 3005 1300 (Touristen Information) |
One of the city centre's main attractions are the - covered shopping streets. Some say they were built because of Hamburg's frequent bad weather, but others see them as a special luxury. People come here to shop, to browse and to be seen. As all the passages are inter-linked, customers can pass through just about all of the city centre's south-west area without ever stepping outside. The arcade-lined Colonnaden leads to the Gänsemarktpassage on the Gänsemarkt. From there, the Gerhofpassage turns up at the Oststraße. If you have time, take a quick detour to the Hamburger Hof, which is situated between the Oststraße and Jungfernstieg. The Hanse-Viertel, built as a shopping gallery in 1980, is one of the city´s biggest passages. Choose one of the turns leading to the Große Bleichen and go through the Alte Post Passage, the Galleria and the Kaufmannshaus (merchants´ house). The latter leads to the Bleichenhof. On the other side of the Bleichenfleet, on the Alsterfleet, you'll find the elegant Alsterarkaden. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Igor Ramadas |
Berlin's best performances |
Herbert-von-Karajan-Straße 1 Berlin, Berlin 10785 +49 (0)30 2548 8999 http://www.berliner-philharmon... kartenbuero@berliner-philharmoniker.de |
The Philharmonie Berlin is a music academy and concert hall where students are trained by the finest music teachers in Berlin to prepare for live concerts and performances. At the end of each year, these students perform in the Musical Celebration of Berlin where they take part in one of the biggest musical concerts performing with the best orchestras and emsembles. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: henningthomsen |
 Photo: Jamie Li May |
 Photo: David Glasser |
 Photo: Carl |
 Photo: Onuko |
 Photo: Johannes Noske |
 Photo: Katja Hohmann |
 Photo: kalliope_vorleserin |
 Photo: Kanako Nakamura |
 Photo: lucas grey |
Garden of the royal family |
Am Lustgarten Vor dem Alten Museum Berlin, Berlin 10178 +49 (0)30 25 0025 (Information für Touristen) |
Situated on the banks of the River Spree and crowned by two of Berlin's most impressive buildings - the Altes Museum and Berliner Dom - the Lustgarten (pleasure garden) was created in 1573 as a garden for the Hohzollerern royal family (the former Royal Palace was situated close by). In the 18th century, Friedrich Wilhelm I turned it into a military parade ground and 60 years ago, what remained of the garden was uprooted to provide space for Nazi parades and rallies. The historic garden was relandscaped in 2000 according to original plans and is once again full of lawns, fountains and bushes. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Nigel Dunkley |
 Photo: collisiontheory |
A real number one |
Potsdamer Platz 1 Berlin, Berlin 10785 +49 (0)30 2537 8945 |
The symbolic address Potsdamer Platz No.1 is occupied by a restaurant that is elegant, yet simply decorated with white table cloths, wooden stools and blue leather sofas. Guests can glance out through the glass front and witness the hustle and bustle taking place on Germany's most famous square. The chef specialises in fine German cuisine and has a tendency to experiment. The menu changes monthly, featuring vegetarian, fish and meat dishes. Try the roast veal with gooseberries with a glass of fine German wine. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Sam Bailey |
Masters of luxury |
Friedrichstraße 71 Berlin, Berlin 10117 +49 (0)30 2094 6240 http://www.quartier206.com info@quartier206.com |
This highly prestigious shopping centre on Friedrichstraße is the place where Berlin's high society and other aesthetes meet in their never-ending battle to keep up with la derniere cri from Paris, Milan and London. The avant-garde building houses numerous boutiques which stock the latest fashions by the likes of Gaultier, Prada, Commes des Garcons, Yohji Yamamoto and Helmut Lang. But that's not all. The concept seems to be to unite all things of beauty under one roof—from fashion and interior design to cosmetics, lingerie and books. It's hard to remain master of your senses here—perhaps a cool drink in the equally cool café is advisable before deciding to get your Visa card out. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Manuel Domingos |
 Photo: winter d'adulescent |
 Photo: Ulrike K |
Eastern wing of the Römer |
Römerberg Frankfurt am Main, HES 60311 |
After Frankfurt's old town was destroyed during the Second World War, heated discussions took place as to how the area between the Dom and Römer should be rebuilt. Towards the end of the 1970s the town council began to reconstruct the half-timbered houses on the east side of the Römerberg. In 1981 work began on the so-called 'Ostzeile' or 'eastern wing', which resulted in the erection of buildings which bear names like Grosser Engel (The Giant Angel) and Goldener Greif (Golden Griffin). These buildings caused much controversy among locals but the Römerberg does look a lot better for them. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: chen1945 |
XXX entertainment |
Reeperbahn Hamburg, Hamburg 20359 +49 (0)40 3005 1300 (Information fur touristen) http://www.reeperbahn-hamburg.com |
Perhaps the single most famous street in Germany, the Reeperbahn is full of cafés, bars and restaurants; theatres, cabarets and clubs; sex shops, striptease shows and brothels. Cutting through the district of St. Pauli, the Reeperbahn is the centre of Hamburg's red-light district - a throbbing, neon-lit centre of diversion which never sleeps. Many of the establishments are seedy rip-off joints, but it's still well worth coming here to cruise down the street and take a breath of its inimitable atmosphere. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: rundkreuzung |
 Photo: christil |
 Photo: Jennifer Hodgson |
 Photo: mr.fridge |
 Photo: dersirtoby |
 Photo: Patrick A. Lorenz |
 Photo: arne böll |
 Photo: Stefan Beckhusen |
 Photo: Monika Nork |
 Photo: Nils Lepperhoff |
 Photo: muckypuppy |
 Photo: Tom Thistlethwaite |
 Photo: fweth |
Controversial communist symbol |
Schlossplatz Berlin, Berlin 10117 +49 (0)30 25 0025 (Touristen Information) http://kultur-netz.de/palast.htm |
Everybody in Berlin agreed that this building was an eyesore. Apart from looking awful, it was an asbestos hazard and stood empty until the city council finally decided to demolish it. The process is still going on but the future of the building is uncertain. Some want to rebuild the Berliner Schloß, the magnificent royal palace which was pulled down to make place for the present monstrosity. Others want to preserve it as a memorial to the former "Democratic Republic" of East Germany. Built in 1976 to house the Volkskammer, the East German parliament which did little more than rubber stamp decisions made by the Politburo, the Palast der Republik also contained exclusive restaurants, bars and clubs for party apparatchiks. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: John Bain |
 Photo: adie201 |
 Photo: Joerg Elges |
 Photo: sindajin |
 Photo: keck_volker |
 Photo: doreen reuchsel |
 Photo: Jerome d'Almeida |
 Photo: hattiflatti |
 Photo: halberst |
 Photo: Kimberly Lueken |
 Photo: mausfabrick |
 Photo: Mark O'Neil |
 Photo: Frédéric Bisson |
 Photo: blue9run |
 Photo: samsa3000 |
An unfortunate honour for the King |
Heumarkt Altstadt Köln, NRW 50667 |
This statue, built to honour King Friedrich Wilhelm III, turned out to be rather a two-edged sword. The form of the mounted statue was not considered kingly enough in court circles. The statue was unveiled in 1876 in spite of this, with a crowd of Cologne's inhabitants encircling the object of so much contention. The sculptor Gustav Blaeser did not live to see the dedication of his work. During the Second World War, the statue was destroyed, along with many other parts of the city. The sculptor Raimund Kittl created a replica using fragments of the original saved from the ruins. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Madelon Kortenaar |
 Photo: John Arhin |
cultural centre and political plaything |
Rosa-Luxemburg-Platz Berlin, Berlin 10178 +49 (0)30 25 0025 (Touristen Information) |
No other square in Berlin has changed its name quite as often as Rosa-Luxemburg-Platz. And that's saying something, because each new political regime in the German capital has traditionally set about renaming streets and squares after its own particular heroes. Previously known as Bülowplatz, East German authorities renamed the square in the fifties after their favourite national hero, Rosa Luxemburg. The central point of interest on the square is the Volksbühne am Rosa Luxemburg Platz theatre, one of the liveliest and creative stages in Berlin. Equally popular is Babylon cinema, an independent cinema with a long tradition. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Sara Miller |
 Photo: snooker68 |
 Photo: Katsu Lask |
 Photo: uv-b@gmx.at |
 Photo: Roman.G. |
 Photo: Jaime Porto |
 Photo: Sergio |
 Photo: Arcangelo Licinio |
 Photo: Antonia Schulz |
 Photo: Ina Kristensen |
 Photo: vonboot |
 Photo: Adam Shuck |
 Photo: silvia |
 Photo: danisilvo |
Five embassies in one |
Rauchstraße 1 Felleshus / Pan Nordic Building Berlin, Berlin D-10787 +49 (0)30 5 0500 http://www.nordischebotschafte... info@nordicembassies.org |
Denmark, Finland, Island, Norway and Sweden joined forces in the late 1990s to build a brand-new "Scandinavian Embassy" in Berlin's Tiergarten. The result is an innovative complex with sloping, light green, copper-plated walls, which can open and close like blinds. The birch trees growing in front of the building give it a subtle Nordic touch. Visitors are free to pop into the central reception area, where exhibitions by Scandinavian artists are on show. It is also worth going up to the second floor to get an overview of the whole complex. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: mikael_on_flickr |
 Photo: www.torbenjantzen.dk |
Busiest shopping street in town |
Hohe Strasse 41 Köln, NRW 50667 +49 221 223 4230 http://www.schildergasse.de/ info@schildergasse.de |
Schildergasse is named after the Schilderer (painters or sign makers) who used to have their studios on the street. Today it's home to most of the major department stores and shops such as Kaufhof, Marks & Spencer, Gap and Douglas. You can take a break to watch the street performers or have look at the jewellery and fruit vendors who sell their goods in the middle of the street. The Bierbrunnen at the lower end of Schildergasse is a great place to chill out after a hectic day's shopping. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: flickr_no1 |
Bronze monument of Schiller |
Taunusanlage Frankfurt am Main, HES 60329 +49 69 2123 8800 (tourist info) info@tcf.frankfurt.de |
If you think of Johann Wolfgang von Goethe as being Frankfurt's most famous son, the city's second most famous inhabitant is almost certainly the great playwright Friedrich Schiller, who for a long time lived near the Hauptwache. It was in Frankfurt that his play Kabale und Liebe was first performed. This monument to Schiller was produced by sculptor Johannes Dielmann in 1864. It stands in the city centre, just in front of the Deutsche Bank's twin towers - a place where culture and commerce merge. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Curran Kelleher |
 Photo: queen_of_harpies |
 Photo: BJemella |
 Photo: Salvador Frigola |
 Photo: Shiva Kumar Naspuri |
 Photo: Ann Merrill |
 Photo: Salvador Cuevas |
From Ruins to Riches |
Hermann-Ehlers-Straße 3 Bonn, NRW 53113 |
The Schürmannbau is located right next to the MP's high rise building. The building was once intended by Joachim Schürmann to be offices for the Government. In 1993, the shell was so badly damaged by floods that it collapsed. Then politicians argued about the future of the building until they finally managed to agree on renovation plans. The radio and TV company Deutsche Welle will soon move in here. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: timo_144 |
1950s suspension bridge |
Severinsbrücke Köln, NRW 50678 |
One of the eight bridges which span the Rhine and connect the two halves of Cologne is the Severinsbrücke. Built in an asymmetrical suspension style in 1959, this bridge is unmistakeable, and at present it is crowned by the actionist artist H. A. Schult's 'Weltkugel' (Globe). Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Laura Zoepf |
Former medieval city gate |
Chlodwigplatz Köln, NRW 50678 |
The Severinstor is the southernmost of the medieval city fortifications, which were built between 1180 and 1220. Nowadays, the Severinstorburg is the symbol of the southern district of Cologne and rooms in the gatehouse can be hired for private events. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Helen |
Classic 1930s architecture |
Reichpietschufer 60/62 Berlin, Berlin 10785 +49 (0)30 25 0025 (Touristen Information) |
The Shell building rises high into the Berlin sky from the banks of the Landwehrkanal. Erected in 1932, this building—shaped like a curvaceous horizontal staircase—gave new meaning to the word "style". As the economy began to boom after the depression, the building became a symbol of prosperity and progress, the flagship of modern German architecture. The steel colossus was designed by architect Emil Fahrenkamp and bears the name of the petrolium concern who commissioned it. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Trevor Hart |
 Photo: Ryan Roberts |
Hi-Tech dreams |
Potsdamer Straße 4 Berlin 10785 +49 (0)30 2575 1177 http://www.sonycenter.de |
The dancing fountains and the superb cupola made of large triangular sails sublimely poised in midair above the central plaza attract thousands of tourists to Potsdamer Platz. Sony's European headquarters built by Helmut Jahn is one of the most important attractions of the new German capital. Besides offices, apartments, and Sony's own trend store the huge, transparent palace of glass and steel houses bars, restaurants, and bistros. The wing dedicated to the Berlin Film Festival is home to Arsenal movie-theatre and the Museum of Cinema. Underneath the plaza there is Cinestar multiplex. Other highlights of entertainment include an Imax cinema. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: KoenZelf |
 Photo: Jamie Addis |
 Photo: David Menting |
 Photo: Jonathan Wright |
 Photo: Catherine Dowdy |
 Photo: Nilpesh Patel |
 Photo: Chris Jobling |
 Photo: Rachel |
 Photo: Suzanne Walsh |
 Photo: rita vita finzi |
 Photo: Eleanor Gordon |
 Photo: Jonathan Beaton |
 Photo: poprostuflaga |
Bombastic Soviet war memorial |
Puschkinallee Treptow Berlin, Berlin +49 (0)30 25 0025 (Touristen Information) |
This imposing communist monument was built in memory of the 20,000 Soviet soldiers who died during the battle for Berlin in 1945. It took 1,200 workers over three years to build (1946-9) and is constructed from the granite which had been previously ordered by the Nazis for their own victory monuments. Located in leafy Treptower Park, the sheer size of the memorial is striking. A broad path leads to the enormous entrance portal, sculpted with lines of grim faced Soviet soldiers. Spread out before you is a 200m-long walkway, decorated with friezes depicting the Red Army's heroic struggle and culminating with a gigantic statue of a sword-wielding Soviet soldier, standing stoically on a plinth bearing friezes of cheerful peasants and workers. The memorial is impressive at any time of year, but is particularly imposing in the winter, when the snow absorbs all sound, lending the area a surreal, awe-striking atmosphere. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Camilla Gridelli |
 Photo: E Shane Morrison |
 Photo: Geo Donuts |
 Photo: sanzante |
 Photo: LE FLO |
 Photo: andrew.cook.t21@btinternet.com |
 Photo: Danny Rust |
 Photo: Jacek Niedziela |
 Photo: simoncasal |
 Photo: Christina Gregory |
 Photo: Andrea Baldassarri |
 Photo: Peter Murdie |
Upstairs, downstairs |
Strandweg Hamburg, Hamburg 22587 +49 (0) 3005 1300 (Information fur touristen) |
Those who wish to experience the beauty of Hamburg's upmarket neighbourhood of Blankenese will need to invest a certain amount of energy. Known as the 'staircase district', Blankenese contains a total of 4,864 steps. The small, narrow lanes have a Mediterranean feel and boast a mixture of elegant turn-of-the-century villas, old fishermen's houses and modern concrete buildings. There are colourful flowers and ivy-covered walls everywhere during the summer. Hesse and Schinkel parks are located in the neighbourhood, and the Römischer Garten is also worth a visit. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Tim Hornikel |
 Photo: Andreas Bemeleit |
 Photo: Stefanie Pape |
 Photo: Kirsten Förste |
 Photo: LillyLain |
 Photo: Spaulding |
 Photo: Ute Wenzel |
 Photo: James Demandt |
 Photo: don_miguel_zapato |
 Photo: angela scheefeld |
 Photo: piranja1 |
Two Cologne originals |
Alter Markt 24 (Haus Em Hanen) Köln, NRW 50667 |
Perhaps the most famous Cologne figures are Tünnes and Schäl. They never actually existed, but were invented by Johann Christoph Winter (1772-1862), the owner of a puppet theatre. The good-natured but dim Tünnes is constantly being taken in for a ride by the cunning and crafty Schäl. The opposite characters are supposed to say something about the Kölsch spirit and are examples for the lessons in life, no positive examples, though. Both were immortalized as life-size bronze statues by Wolfgang Reuter on the wall of the Haus Em Hanen directly at Alter Markt. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: biribinker |
Historical Street in the City Centre |
Sternstraße Bonn, NRW 53111 |
For any visitor to Bonn, a walk through the Sternstraße in the city centre is definitely worth it. There are many small shops, from where visitors can pick up great souvenirs. Don't forget to check out the houses in which the shops are located. Almost every one of these pretty houses has a sign on the first floor, which explains the history and use of the building in the past. The Sternstraße was earlier called the Pisternenstraße ( from the Latin word pistor, which means baker) which could mean that this guild was well represented here. The first syllable was left out after a while, and thus the street name has today become Sternstraße. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: dotfiles |
Megalomanic dreams |
Platz der Luftbrücke Berlin, Berlin 12101 +49 (0)30 6091 2055 (Berlin Airports) |
The destruction of many of Berlin's buildings during the War did not bother Hitler's architects. They wanted to transform the face of the capital in any case. One of the great projects that bears testimony to their megalomanic plans is Tempelhof Airport, built in the years 1936-1941. The brown stone building is over one kilometre long, and is one of the longest buildings in Europe. It was here that American cargo planes landed with food for starving West Berliners in the Berlin Airlift of 1948-49. During the Cold War, it was an important US airforce base and remained Berlin's main airport until the opening of Tegel Airport in 1975. Nowadays, however, it is merely a minor airport concentrating on domestic and business traffic. Rumours of closure have circulated for years, but its location close to the new headquarters of the German government could yet save it. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: hiyori13 |
 Photo: Mark Weills |
 Photo: David Noelte |
 Photo: medipixel |
 Photo: Hispania |
 Photo: André Benedix |
 Photo: carolina ruiz-león |
 Photo: Javier Ortega Figueiral |
 Photo: a.peng |
 Photo: J. Kern |
 Photo: alice earl |
 Photo: Adam McArdle |
 Photo: MFOptik.de |
Victory arch |
Ludwigstraße Maxvorstadt München, Bayern 80539 |
The triple-arched Siegestor was constructed in 1843-52 based on designs by Friedrich von Gärtner. Although it is primarily a monument to the Bavarian army and its success in the Napoleonic war of liberation, it should be considered from a different perspective these days. The gate was badly damaged in the Second World War and restored with the following inscription by Wilhelm Hausenstein: "Dedicated to victory, destroyed by war and a reminder to us all". The proportions of the arch resemble the Constantine Gate in Rome, on which it was modeled. The top of the arch is decorated with bronze figures depicting Bavaria on a chariot being led by four lions. The Siegestor marks the northern end of Ludwigstraße and the start of Schwabing, one of the city's most popular nightlife hotspots. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Matt Palmer |
Tours of WDR Television and Radio |
Appellhofplatz Innenstadt Köln, NRW 50667 +49 221 220 6744 http://www.wdr.de gregor.mueller@wdr.de |
Anyone who's interested in television and broadcasting, and would like to catch a glimpse behind the scenes should definitely take one of the guided tours of the Westdeutscher Rundfunk, Germany's largest regional broadcaster. There are tours of the Funkhaus, the radio and TV studios in the center of Cologne, or the production studios in Bocklemünd, where mainly series are filmed. There is also a tour of the Eins Live radio station in the Mediapark, which includes a discussion group with the producers and presenters. It is necessary to register in advance for the tours, which last one to two hours, but they are free. Registration at WDR Besucherbetreuung, 50600 Köln. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: ViSta40472 |
Thick and Thin Hermann |
Knaackstraße (Diedenhoferstraße -- Am Wasserturm) Berlin, Berlin 10435 +49 (0)30 25 0025 (Touristen Information) |
Fifty metres from Kollwitzplatz you'll see the old water tower, built in 1877, and its thin brother, built in 1856. In Berlin they are nicknamed Thick Hermann and Thin Hermann. Thick Hermann only became redundant in 1952, and remains inhabited to this day; the flats in the tower were designed for the water tower workers and their families. A red flag has flown on Thin Hermann since 1990, and reminds passers-by of the flag hoisted in 1933 as a mark of protest against Fascist terror. The square which surrounds the tower is a much quieter alternative to neighbouring Kollwitzplatz. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Katherine Sharpe |
 Photo: Brendan Gaffney |
 Photo: Larkin Dugan |
 Photo: Oliver Chesler |
 Photo: Ori Neidich |
Epicentre of Nazi Germany |
Wilhelmstraße Berlin, Berlin 10117 +49 (0)30 25 0025 (Touristen Information) |
Quai d´Orsay? Downing Street? Everyone knows them. But Wilhelmstraße? Never heard of it! Yet until 1945, this was the epicentre of Germany, the location of all major ministries and political institutions. The most notorious address is 78 Wilhelmstraße, Hitler´s Chancellery. It was here that the Führer drew up his plans for world domination and it was here that he commited suicide in the final days of the War. Nowadays, nothing is left of the Chancellery nor of the other ministries which were razed to the ground by American bombs and Soviet artillery. The only remnant of the Nazi period is Goering´s Luftwaffe headquarters—now home to the Ministry of Finance (pictured). Some of the buildings bear small plaques to inform visitors of what took place here. An interesting development is the new British Embassy whose creative and colourful facade doesn't quite fit in with the grey monoliths surrounding it. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Daniel Spink |
Munich's prettiest fountain |
Lenbachplatz Innenstadt München, Bayern 80333 |
Munich's most beautiful fountain is located on a terrace up on Lenbachplatz, overlooking the clusters of trees on Maximilianplatz. Like the other buildings on the axis of Karlsplatz, Lenbachplatz and Maximiliansplatz, Wittelsbacher Fountain was constructed at the end of the 19th century. This landmark depicts allegories of strength and water: the man hurling stones and the woman bearing a bowl provide a successful example of historicism which, in this case, combines Roman Baroque with classical elements. The fountain was sculpted between 1893-95 by Adolf von Hildebrand, to celebrate the installation of a municipal water supply. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: 01unpaiddebutante |
Baroque masterpiece |
Unter den Linden 2 Berlin, Berlin 10117 +49 (0)30 2 0304 x444 / +49 (0)30 2 0304 x0 http://www.dhm.de/ausstellunge... webadmin@dhm.de |
The Zeughaus began life as a military arsenal - and an impressive arsenal it is too. More like a palace than an arms depot, the magnificent baroque building, located opposite the former Royal Palace on the banks of the River Spree, has been recently restored and now exudes all of its former splendour. Built around 1700, the palatial Zeughaus is one of the oldest buildings on Unter den Linden and is therefore the perfect location for the National History Museum which it now houses. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Rob van Driel |
 Photo: Dennis Gerbeckx |
 Photo: graphixx☆ |
 Photo: Burkhard Groh |
 Photo: Anna Hanson |
Main station |
Glockengießerwall Hamburg, Hamburg 20095 +49 (0)40 3005 1300 (Information für Touristen) http://www.bahnhof-hamburg.de/... |
Built in 1901-06, Hamburg's central station is regarded as one of the city's finest examples of turn-of-the-century architecture. With its huge, 35 meters high, 120 meters wide and 140 meters long glass and steel main hall, the station dominates this part of the city centre. Continually modernized over the decades, the station now incorporates a shopping centre and several snack bars and cafés. While two other stations (Dammtorbahnhof and Bahnhof Altona) also serve the city, most long-distance trains depart and leave from the main station. Numerous hotels are located within easy walking distance of the station. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: mainone |
 Photo: ania |
 Photo: Wolfgang Binder |
 Photo: Shidrati Ali |
 Photo: Leonard Wei |
 Photo: Davide Sciola |
 Photo: Pietro Passarelli |
 Photo: Sephi |
 Photo: Pei Palmgren |
 Photo: Hana |
 Photo: dragonflex |
 Photo: Dan Patterson |
 Photo: Johan Nilsson |
 Photo: dercorn |
West Berlin's legendary department store |
Tauentzienstraße 21-24 Berlin, Berlin 10789 +49 (0)30 2121 x0 http://www.kadewe-berlin.de/ info@kadewe.de |
Paradise is on the sixth floor of KaDeWe department store. At least for gourmets it is. This is not necessarily a place where people come to stock up on their weekly groceries, but more to marvel at the sumptuous mountains of food on display. Here you will see Japanese tourists photographing cheese counters, businessmen drooling over wine racks and housewives studying fish displays as if they were admiring works of art in a museum. Before the fall of the Berlin Wall, the Kaufhaus des Westens was regarded as the West's shop window in the East. The store took on a political role and was seen as a flagship of western culture. It remains one of the most important tourist attractions in western Berlin. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Robert Weiss |
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