Brandenburg Gate

The Brandenburg Gate stands as an emblem of Berlin's rich and tumultuous history, a must-see for anyone exploring the city. It's not just any old gate; it's the only surviving historic city gate in Berlin. Once a stark symbol of Cold War division, it now represents unity and the spirit of a reunited Germany. Architecturally, the gate is a stunning example of neo-classical design. Made from sandstone, it was one of Germany's earliest Greek revival buildings.

Built between 1788 and 1791, the Brandenburg Gate was designed by Carl Gotthard Langhans, who was the architect for the Prussian court. He drew inspiration from the grand entrance of the Acropolis in Athens. The gate itself is impressive: it stands 26 meters high, stretches 65.5 meters long, and is 11 meters deep. Its structure is supported by two rows of six majestic Doric columns.

In 1793, the Quadriga statue was added on top of the gate. This sculpture, crafted by Johann Gottfried Schadow, has quite a tale of its own. When Napoleon's forces captured Berlin in 1806, the French Emperor took the Quadriga to Paris as a trophy of his triumph. But the story took a turn in 1814. After Napoleon's downfall, the statue was triumphantly returned to Berlin, where it reclaimed its place atop the Brandenburg Gate, proudly facing east towards the city center. For those interested in visiting, the Brandenburg Gate is more than just a photo opportunity. It's a place where history breathes, offering a tangible connection to Berlin's past. Nearby, the Pariser Platz buzzes with life, surrounded by embassies, hotels, and cafes, making it an ideal spot to soak up the local atmosphere while reflecting on the stories the gate has witnessed.