The Brandenburg Gate - one of the most famous landmarks of Berlin
One of the most famous landmarks of Berlin is the Brandenburg Gate on Pariser Platz (Paris square). The "Porta Pacis" (Peace Gate) was built from sandstone in 1788-1791 at the order of the Prussian King Friedrich Wilhelm II. In 1793, this impressive building was crowned with a copper Quadriga. Only thirteen years later, the Quadriga was taken by Napoleon's troops to Paris with the intention to decorate the Arc de Triumph. But it never came to it. The Prussian troops found the Quatriga still wrapped up during the invasion of the French capital. In 1814 the Quadriga was placed back in its original place and it is now considered a symbol of victory over the enemy.
During the division of Germany the gate was associated with the cold war and marked the border between the GDR and the FRG. After the fall of the wall the Brandenburg Gate eventually developed a new meaning: a symbol of a reunified Germany and and its old but new capital.
The great gate in Dorotheen-district is a venue for many events. For information you can visit the information office directly at the Brandenburg Gate. It is open daily from 9.30am until 6pm. Since 1995, Berlin celebrates here also one of the largest New Year's Eve party. Admission is free, but if you would like a seat, you have to come early, no later than 7.30 p.m.
During the division of Germany the gate was associated with the cold war and marked the border between the GDR and the FRG. After the fall of the wall the Brandenburg Gate eventually developed a new meaning: a symbol of a reunified Germany and and its old but new capital.
The great gate in Dorotheen-district is a venue for many events. For information you can visit the information office directly at the Brandenburg Gate. It is open daily from 9.30am until 6pm. Since 1995, Berlin celebrates here also one of the largest New Year's Eve party. Admission is free, but if you would like a seat, you have to come early, no later than 7.30 p.m.
