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Can You Visit the Berlin Wall?

by | Mar 7, 2024 | World War Tour Berlin

If you are going to Berlin and wonder if you can see the Berlin Wall, it is. You’re in the right place! In this ultimate guide we’ll give you everything you need to know about visiting this famous historical site.

1. Understanding the Berlin Wall

A physical barrier between the city of Berlin, the Berlin Wall opened in 1961 and closed in 1989. The building was constructed in the German Democratic Republic (East Germany) to hinder emigration to West Germany. It became a Cold War wall, a symbol of divided Germany.

2. History of the Berlin Wall

On August 13, 1961, the Berlin Wall was started to be built. The wall was made of concrete, 3.6 metres high, with guard towers, barbed wire, and a ‘death strip’ of traps and mines. The border was a heavily fortified wall between East and West Berlin.

One of the great ways to learn about this historical period as well as the struggles of the people of divided Berlin is to visit the Berlin Wall.

3. Where Can You See the Berlin Wall?

While most parts of the original Berlin Wall were dismantled after its fall, there are still several locations in Berlin where you can visit remnants of the wall and learn about its history:

3.1 East Side Gallery

The Berlin Wall is one of the things Berlin is famous for; you can take a look at what’s left of it at the East Side Gallery. It’s on the Spree creek and has more than a kilometer of murals that were painted by artists from around the globe. It is a wonderful open air gallery commemorating the spirit of freedom.

3.2 Checkpoint Charlie

Border crossings between East and West Berlin was one of the main ones and the name of one of those borders was Checkpoint Charlie. It is today a popular tourist attraction with replica of the guardhouse and an exhibition on the wall’s history.

3.3 Berlin Wall Memorial

The Bernauer Strasse is the site of the Berlin Wall Memorial. An open air exhibition, a preserved section of the wall and a memorial for those who died at the wall are also open here.

4. Berlin Wall Visiting Tips

Here are some helpful tips to make the most out of your visit to the Berlin Wall:

  • Come early enough to give yourself enough time to visit all the sites.
  • To get a more in depth history and significance of the wall, you may want to consider taking a guided tour.
  • Try to wear comfortable shoes as it’s a lot of walking no matter how many places you plan to see.
  • Don’t forget your camera! There are lots of opportunities for pictures along the Berlin Wall.
  • Remember the solemnity of historical events that took place and respect the memorial sites.

5. Conclusion

If you are heading to Berlin, this is a must see if only to visit the Berlin Wall. The result is a powerful look at the history of a divided city and the victory of unity. Whether you prefer to see the mind bending East Side Gallery or delve into the historical context at Berlin Wall Memorial, you’ll come out understanding more of Berliners’ struggles during the Cold War.

Can You Visit the Berlin Wall?