The best known of Berlin’s symbols, the Brandenburg Gate stands proudly in the middle of Pariser Platz, asserting itself against the hyper-modern embassy buildings that now surround it. Formerly, one of 8 gates of the city, this western gate was the one leading to Brandenburg. Crowned by its triumphant Quadriga sculpture, the famous Gate has long been a focal point in Berlin’s history: rulers and statesmen, military parades and demonstrations – all have felt compelled to march through the Brandenburger Tor. Since its restoration in 2002, Berlin’s symbol is now lit up more brightly than ever before. Built by Carl G. Langhans in 1788-91 and modeled on the temple porticos of ancient Athens, the Gate has, since the 19th century, been the backdrop for many events in the city’s turbulent history. The Quadriga standing 6m above the Gate was created in 1794 by Johann Gottfried Schadow as a symbol of peace. Schadow used his niece as the model for the laurel-crowned goddess of peace in the chariot. In 1806, Napoleon had the Quadriga removed form the gate and transported to Paris. It was not returned to its original position until August 14, 1814. From 1945 to 1989, the Gate and the Wall were terrible monuments to Germany’s division. Today, however, movement between East and West is once again unhindered.
One of the most famous hotels in Berlin is the Hotel Adlon Berlin, completed in 1997, it is favoured by visiting dignitaries. Berlin’s most elegant hotel is a reconstruction of the original Hotel Adlon. This legendary hotel, destroyed in World War II, was host to the rich and famous, including Greta Garbo, Thomas Mann and Charlie Chaplin.
The last gap in the line of buildings around Pariser Platz will be closed by 2005. A dispute between the embassy and the Berlin Senate delayed building for several years: an entire street was to be moved to satisfy the USA’s security requirements. But in the end, the historical street stayed where it was.
One of the best spots for a coffee break on Pariser Platz is Café Meyerbeer, in the Palais am Pariser Platz. Don’t miss its great cake display. The Palais am Pariser Platz was built by Bernhard Winking, a successful modern interpretation of Neo-Classical architecture, is slightly hidden to the north of the Brandenburger Tor. It is worth venturing inside where you will find a café, a restaurant and a souvenir shop around a pleasantly shaded courtyard.