Willkommen, Bienvenue, Welcome to Berlin

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Two nights in Berlin but only really one full day to explore the city - nevertheless we managed to fit quite a bit in. The studio apartment located in Olivaer Platz we'd booked online the day before we arrived proved to be a little gem, Deciding to take a taxi once we'd arrived at Berlin Hbf it seemed to be a long drive but it turned out that we were well served by buses (didn't even try the metro) and not very far from the places we wanted to see.
Making the most of the day we visited the Reichstag, Berlin Cathedral, Rathaus, Brandenburg Gate, etc and some of what used to be East Berlin. At the Brandenburg Gate we went into the Silent Room for a few minutes contemplation. The room is a symbol, a continuous reminder against violence and xenophobia and a small step towards peace. We also learnt a little more of the history of this fascinating city. Tomorrow we head towards Denmark where we will be visiting your parents Thomas so we are both looking forward to that.

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Photos

Citadines, Olivaer Platz, Berlin
which turned out to be a great studio apartment and a real bargain

The Story of Berlin
would have been very interesting to see I'm sure but we had to just walk past - not enough time!

Reichstag
originally built in 1894 it has had a chequered history but is now the home of the German Bundestag (parliament).

The new glass dome of the Reichstag
which was finished in 1999 looks very impressive

On the Reichstag roof
after another long queue!!

The sorrow of the Berlin Wall
- some of those who died trying to get from the East to the West during the Cold War

Kev in front of the Brandenburg Gate
- commisioned by Friedrich Wilhelm II to represent peace.

Rebuilding the American Embassy
where it originally stood

Reminders of the past
- you can pay to have your photo taken with this trio!!

The Silent Room
at the Brandenburg Gate - a room for contemplation - the sign at its entrance

Two of the cities numerous cranes
- part of the continuing work in Berlin which has been going on since reunification

One of the many Berlin statues
- nothing more than the glorification of war really

This though is a symbol for peace
a mother cradles her dying son

Berlin cathedral
- located on Museum Island in the Mitte district, and built between 1895 and 1905.

Bombed during WW11
and close to Berlin Zoo