Our second day in Berlin began with a lecture at Checkpoint Charlie its museum. During the Cold War was the most well-known Berlin Wall crossing point between East Berlin and West Berlin.
Our lecturer and guide, Jacobi, painted a detailed picture of what the situation was like for those crossing at the junction in the Friedrichstadt neighborhood. It was the designated crossing point for foreigners and members of the Allied forces.
The museum featured many interesting items including escape apparatus like hot-air balloons and even getaway cars.
Next on our itinerary was Gendarmenmarkt; an idyllic backdrop for architecture enthusiasts. It is a famous square in Berlin, lined with the Konzerthaus, and two picturesque churches; one French and one German.
After marveling at these beautiful buildings and taking advantage of several photo opps, we made our way to the book burning memorial at Bebelplatz.This memorial was conceptualized by Micha Ullman, an Israeli artist, to remind us of the tragic book burning bonfire held by the Nazis in that exact location on May 10, 1933. Some of the works burnt at the site including those written my Sigmund Freud, Karl Marx, Rosa Luxembourg and many others. This event led to Jewish segregation and expulsion from academic circles and even the German society.
Upon perusing through the vibrant city for several hours, we certainly worked-up our appetites and stopped for lunch along the river at Hackescher Markt. What was on the menu for lunch? Many of us enjoyed currywurst, pretzels and if we’re honest, pizza and shawarmas too. 😁
Happy and full, we cruised towards the famous East Side Gallery, which consists of a series of murals painted on the remnants of the Berlin Wall. Most of the works on the wall are quite political in nature and make for great discussions and learning.
Over 1 km later, we found ourselves in the neighbourhood of Kreuzberg, known for vintage shops, cafes and restaurants.
On that note, we headed to dinner. It was delish!
Danke schön, Germany! Next stop…POLAND!
Welcome to Eastern Europe 