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Mitte: historical sites in the center of Berlin Not far from Friedrichstraße, surrounded by an ensemble of buildings in classical style is the lovely square called "Gendarmenmarkt." Further up Unter den Linden lie other historical points of interest such as the Humboldt University, built in 1753, alma mater not only to Hegel and Marx and the Zeughaus with the Deutsches Historisches Museum (Museum of German history). Further up is the 'Palast der Republik', which once housed the - politically meaningless - parliament of the GDR. You can still see the long balcony where Honecker and his collegues viewed the yearly May Day parades. Today, the German parliament is still trying to decide whether this asbestos-contaminated building should be torn down or not. The most imposing building on Unter den Linden is the "Berliner Dom" (Berlin Cathedral), constructed in the late 19th century. Just next to it is the "Alte Museum" (Old Museum), designed by Schinkel. Three other museums, the "Gemäldegalerie" (Painting Gallery), the "Pergamon Museum" (impressive display of the ancient city of Pergamon excavated and reconstructed), and the "Bode Museum." Opposite the entrance to the Bode Museum is the "Monbijou-Brücke" (Monbijou Bridge) which crosses over the river Spree and leads back to Oranienburger Straße. With its many cafés and pubs, this street offers a perfect opportunity to sit a while and relax. Another ideal spot for a rest is at the "Neptun Brunnen" (Neptune Fountain) in front of the Fernsehturm at Alexanderplatz. Not located far from Oranienburger Straße, this square is brilliant for people-watching. back to maintrack

 

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