The Brandenburg Gate on Pariser Platz is not only Berlin's best-known landmark, but also a symbol of Germany. Every year, countless tourists visit the famous monument in the heart of the capital.
Built according to the Greek model
Originally the Brandenburg Gate was one of 18 city wall gates built between 1789 and 1791 by order of Frederick William II. Its main purpose was to close off the boulevard Unter den Linden.
The neoclassical sandstone building is modelled on the porch of the Acropolis and consists of a total of twelve columns that form five passageways. The gatehouses are located on each side. At the top of the gate is Victoria, the Roman goddess of victory. She stands on a quadriga, a chariot pulled by four horses.
Brandenburg Gate in a restricted area for decades
The Brandenburg Gate was badly damaged during the Second World War and was rebuilt towards the end of the 1950s. When the Berlin Wall was erected in divided Germany in 1961, the structure stood within the restricted area and was no longer accessible. It divided the city into East and West.
The gate has only been open again since the fall of the Berlin Wall on November 9, 1989. Since then it has been considered a symbol of the reunification of the city. Above all, because of its outstanding historical significance, it can also be seen on the German 10, 20 and 50 cent coins.
Meeting point for locals and visitors
The Brandenburg Gate has now been completely closed to vehicle traffic and turned into a pedestrian zone. It is a popular meeting place for Berliners and tourists. Major events also take place regularly on the forecourt, such as the huge New Year's Eve party, to which visitors from all over the world travel, or the victory celebrations of the German national team.
The famous and historic Hotel Adlon is located directly at the Brandenburg Gate. And from some of the luxurious rooms you have a wonderful view of Germany's most famous landmark.
