We visited the 4th largest city in Europe, Berlin, the last weekend of February, 2005.
West
After World War II, the USA, the UK and France merged their administration zones into one, and allowed it to be integrated into the Federal Republic of Germany, founded in 1949. With the new center in Kurfürstendamm, this part the city was the last outpost of the free world, and evolved into a showcase of western capitalism.
East
After World War II, Berlin, Germany, and Europe were divided in two. East Germany developed a Soviet style communism, also apparent in architecture, like in Karl Marx Allee.
Historic Center
The historic center includes Brandenburger Tor, Reichtag, Berliner Dom, Schinkel Museum and more. After the bombing during World War II, many buildings lay in ruins for up to 50 years.
