When walking through the city of Berlin there is a possibility you may encounter the popular spot known as Alexanderplatz. Some people ask their questions regarding whether Alexanderplatz is situated in East Berlin or not. That is why let us look at history and geographical location, to know the answer.
An Insight into the Berlin History
Divided by the Berlin Wall from 1961 to 1989, Berlin was separated into two distinct parts: East Berlin and West Berlin. East Berlin was the capital of the German Democratic Republic popularly known as East Germany while West Berlin was a city state, encircled by the GDR.
Alexanderplatz: The Heart of East Berlin
Initially called “Ochsenmarkt” or “Alexanderplatz”, it is an essential area both for transportation in the centre of Berlin in the Mitte borough. Architecturally, Alexanderplatz was an important part and parcel of socialist architecture of the German Democratic Republic or East Germany.
Key Features of Alexanderplatz
Alexanderplatz is renowned for its distinctive landmarks:
- TV Tower (Fernsehturm): A 368-meter tall tower with an observation deck providing panoramic views of the city.
- World Clock (Weltzeituhr): A popular meeting point adorned with a revolving cylinder displaying the time in various locations around the world.
- Fountain of Friendship among Peoples (Brunnen der Völkerfreundschaft): A stunning fountain symbolizing the friendship between the socialist countries of Eastern Europe.
Shopping and Entertainment
Alexanderplatz offers a myriad of shopping and entertainment options:
- Alexa Shopping Center: A large mall featuring numerous stores, boutiques, and restaurants.
- Galeria Kaufhof: One of Germany’s most well-known department stores, dating back to 1904.
- Park Inn Berlin: A popular hotel and casino located at the square.
Transportation Hub
There is a lot of public transport: different lines of subway, trams and buses intersect within the limits of Alexanderplatz. It can be used as a hub to a traveler when arriving at the city or planning to move around the neighboring counties.
Unity and Berlin of the Late Twentieth Century
After the reunification of Germany in October 1990 as an effect of breaking the Berlin Wall in November 1989, the barrier between East Berlin and West Berlin no longer remained. This is because Berlin for example has changed from being a divided city to a united and lively capital of Germany general.
Conclusion
Without any doubt, Alexanderplatz can be categorically stated to be situated in what use to be East Berlin because this was the headquarters of the German Democratic Republic boasting of a central business, transport and communication center. Presently, though its historic value can still be assessed, the given place has become a symbol of the united German capital. This means that when you are in the region, it becomes possible for you to discover some of the interesting features of the square while getting to feel the energy of the whole place at the same time.
