In the Footsteps of the Prussian Royal Capital – A Discovery Tour

Nikolaiviertel, Berlin



Berlin's landscape bears the scars of two world wars. Embark on a search for the traces of the era of the great electors and Kaisers and experience the beauty of a city that has almost disappeared.

Highlights

  • Experience history up close through historical photographs.
  • A flexible and personalized exploration of Berlin's history.
  • Berlin's development before World War II, an often-forgotten era.
  • The tour consists of 3 parts.

Description

In May 1945, Berlin's historic city center lay buried in ruins, rubble, and ashes. Today, the consequences of this dark era dominate the cityscape of the historic center. However, amidst today's vibrant metropolis, remnants of the past still lie hidden. We will follow the traces of Berlin's history before the destruction, before the bombs fell. What was destroyed, and what actually survived the bombs? What was demolished during the GDR era, and what was rebuilt? We will explore the history of Berlin from its founding in the Middle Ages to World War II, when the city's appearance was changed forever. We will shed light on the city's origins in the Middle Ages and examine its development from a trading center to a royal capital to an industrial metropolis. We will discover how Berlin became one of the most magnificent cities in the world before it was reduced to ruins. We will learn how margraves, electors, kings, and emperors sought to – and succeeded in – immortalizing themselves in this city. Using historical paintings and photographs, which we compare with the city as it is today, we will bring the almost forgotten, beautiful royal capital of Berlin back to life and gain insight into the lives of Berliners. In three parts, we will explore Berlin's eventful history and examine the city as it has changed over time: In Old Berlin, we will start at the Neptune Fountain opposite the Rotes Rathaus and delve into the early days of Berlin at St. Mary's Basilica. We will explore the city's oldest market square, the last remnants of the original city walls, and Berlin's first church: Nikolaikirche. In Old Cölln, we will start at Schlossplatz and trace the city's development into an imperial capital on Museum Island. Today, the Marstall, the Berlin City Palace, Berlin Cathedral, the Altes Museum, and the National Gallery stand as witnesses to the heyday of the Prussian rulers. Unter den Linden takes us from Bebelplatz to Pariser Platz, revealing the scope and significance of this unique city. We will see how Frederick the Great sought to express himself through architecture, we will see Berlin's Customs Wall, and we will relive the birth of democracy in Germany at Republic Square.

Includes

Guided tour of the Prussian heart of Berlin Historical images and photographs are provided to help participants experience the history of Berlin

Easy cancellation

Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund

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