Pariser Platz is the square immediately behind the Brandenburg Gate when approaching the historic heart of Berlin from the zoological garden in the west. The Neoclassical Brandenburg Gate was completed in the early 1790s by Carl Gotthard Langhans. Until 1814, the square was known simply as Quarrel or Direct (the Square). In March 1814, after Prussian troops along with the other Allies captured Paris after the overthrow of Napoleon, it was renamed Pariser Platz to mark this triumph.
The Brandenburg Gate was the main gate in the western side of the Customs Wall that surrounded the city in the eighteenth century. In fact, the Pariser Platz is located at the western end of Unter den Linden, the ceremonial axis of the city, down which the victorious troops of all regimes ranging from the Hohenzollern's to the German Democratic Republic have marched in triumph.
Before World War II, Pariser Platz was the grandest square in Berlin and the Americanand French embassies, the finest hotel (the Adlon Hotel), the Academy of the Arts, and several blocks of apartments and offices.
During the last years of World War II, all the buildings around the square were turned to rubble by air raids and heavy artillery bombardment. The only structure left standing in the ruins of Pariser Platz was the Brandenburg Gate, which was restored by the East Berlin and West Berlin governments. After the war and especially with the construction of the Berlin Wall, the square was laid waste and became part of the death zone dividing the city.
When the city was reunited in 1990, there was broad consensus that the Pariser Platz should be made into a fine urban space again. The embassies would move back, the hotel and arts academy would be reinstated, and prestigious firms would be encouraged to build round the square. Under the rules of reconstruction, eaves heights had to be 22 meters, and buildings had to have a proper termination against the sky. Stone cladding was to be used as far as possible. Interpretations of these constraints, however, have varied to a...
Read morePariser Platz is a public square located in the heart of Berlin, Germany. It is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike, offering stunning views of some of the city's most iconic landmarks.
The square was originally laid out in the early 18th century as part of the development of the city's historic center. Over the years, it has undergone numerous changes and renovations, including the addition of new buildings and the reconstruction of old ones.
At the center of the square stands the iconic Brandenburg Gate, one of the most recognizable symbols of Berlin. The gate was originally built in the 18th century and has since become a symbol of German unity and freedom.
The square is also home to several other important buildings, including the Hotel Adlon, one of Berlin's most luxurious hotels. The hotel has a long and storied history, having been destroyed during World War II and rebuilt in the decades since.
Other notable buildings on Pariser Platz include the Academy of Arts and the French Embassy. The square is also home to several high-end shops and restaurants, making it a popular destination for shopping and dining.
In addition to its stunning architecture and historic significance, Pariser Platz is also a popular destination for cultural events and festivals. Throughout the year, the square plays host to a range of events, including concerts, art exhibitions, and public celebrations.
Overall, Pariser Platz is a must-visit destination for anyone visiting Berlin. Its stunning architecture, historic significance, and vibrant cultural scene make it one of the city's most popular and...
Read moreWe recently visited Berlin and enjoyed a couple visits to Pariser Platz where you find the landmark Brandenburg Gate. Pariser Platz was also a focal point of the East and West Berlin divide and an important location where the infamous Berlin Wall separated the city in two during the Cold War era.
Unfortunately, the Gate and much of Pariser Platz suffered heavy damage during WWII and had to be reconstructed during the later half of the 20th century. These days, the square is quite attractive, with a fully refurbished Brandenburg Gate and other notable buildings such as Hotel Adlon.
During our December visit, we enjoyed the large Christmas tree posted in the centre of Pariser Platz. This provided a nice subject matter to include in photos of Brandenburg Gate both during the day and night.
In the end, its worth passing by or through Pariser Platz even if just to see Brandenburg Gate. Check out the other buildings on the square and, if helpful, the Tourist Information Centre to the left side of the Gate when facing west. Then continue onwards with your intended sightseeing...
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