Unter den Linden is one of the most well-known avenues in Berlin, stretching from the Brandenburg Gate to the site of the former royal palace at the Lustgarten. "Under the Linden Trees" derives from the linden (lime) trees planted along the boulevard in the 17th century.
The avenue was laid out in the late 16th century and was turned into a prestigious boulevard by Friedrich Wilhelm, Elector of Brandenburg, in the 17th century. He commissioned planting the linden trees, which gave the avenue its name. Unter den Linden soon became the heart of Berlin's intellectual, cultural, and political life, with several notable buildings and monuments built along it, including the Humboldt University and the State Opera.
During the Nazi era, Unter den Linden, like the rest of Berlin, was used for propaganda. The avenue was used for massive military parades and rallies. The boulevard was heavily damaged during World War II, and many linden trees were destroyed.
After the war, the avenue ended up in East Berlin during the city's division. The East German government restored it but lost some of its former grandeur due to the city's division. However, the linden trees were replanted in the 1950s, and after the reunification of Germany in 1990, many of the buildings along the avenue were restored.
Today, Unter den Linden symbolizes the grandeur of Prussian Berlin and the city's turbulent 20th-century history. It is now a popular tourist destination, serving as a reminder of the city's past and a testament to its resilience and rebirth.
Starting from the vibrant Berlin Zoo, home to a diverse array of exotic animals, you'll take a leisurely walk towards the expansive Tiergarten. This beloved urban park, once a hunting ground for royalty, now serves as the city's green heart, with its winding paths, tranquil ponds, and idyllic picnic spots.
Your journey then leads you to the Victory Column, a towering monument symbolising Berlin's resilience and strength. With its gilded statue of Victoria, the Roman goddess of victory, the column reminds us of Germany's turbulent past.
Next, you'll approach the iconic Reichstag, a magnificent piece of architecture that houses the German parliament. Its striking glass dome, which provides a panoramic view of the city, is a testament to the transparency of Germany's democratic process. Finally, just a short walk away lies the poignant Soviet War Memorial, a tribute to the Soviet soldiers who fell during the Battle of Berlin in World War II.
Continuing your journey, you'll arrive at the Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe, a sobering reminder of the atrocities of the Holocaust. Its undulating field of concrete blocks prompts reflection and remembrance.
As you pass through the majestic Brandenburg Gate, the symbol of Berlin's unification, you'll enter Unter den Linden. This grand boulevard, named after the Linden trees lining its sides, is filled with historic buildings and important landmarks.
Finally, you'll reach the charming Mitte district, where the Gendarmenmarkt, or the Square of Two Churches, awaits. This stunning plaza, home to the German and French Cathedrals and the Concert House, is one of the city's most picturesque spots.
After a day of sightseeing, there's no better way to relax than by enjoying a delightful brunch at BraufactuM Berlin am Hausvogteiplatz. Known for its artisanal beers and delicious food, it's the perfect place to sample Berlin's rich culinary tradition, culminating your walking tour on a high note.
Don't be afraid to get lost in new places!
