Berlin: A once-divided city now unified by art

In Berlin, what was once a stage of conflict has transformed into a community of artists. Now the art capital of the world, it boasts a cultural experience for all. Walk among the city streets where remnants of a tumultuous history blend with contemporary creativity.

Today, the Berlin Wall stands not as an oppressive barrier, but the world’s longest open-air gallery. Stretching 1 300 metres along a remaining section of the border, the East Side Gallery is a statement against the measures that once fractured this city during the Cold War. This jarring physical reminder is saturated with art works like It Happened in November by Kani Alavi and Touch The Wall by Christine Kühn.

Greener pastures lie ahead for Berlin, as more natural spaces are introduced. One third of the city is composed of forests, lakes, and parks, and the goal is to be entirely climate neutral by 2050. Sundays can be spent browsing the flea market in Mauerpark or exploring the picturesque Witch’s Garden in Britzer Garten. Tiergarten park is the most popular in Berlin, spanning 250 hectares. At its edge lies the Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe. With 2 711 concrete slabs symbolising the lives lost during the Holocaust, it offers an opportunity to be still and acknowledge the past. 

There is no better way to take in the sheer size and views of the city than by admiring them from Berlin’s highest point – the Television Tower. A rotating restaurant and bar sit at the top along with a viewing deck, allowing for dining and drinks overlooking Berlin. In autumn, follow up dinner with some ‘LightSeeing’ during the Festival of Lights. Lasers and lighting are projected onto iconic buildings like Brandenburg Gate and Berlin Cathedral during a 10-day exhibition by local and international artists. 

Berlin is intrinsically its creativity and community. Here, the pain of the past is recognised as an opportunity to reimagine the future. Take in the historical sights while appreciating how citizens are turning their remembrance into unifying art.