John-Foster-Dulles-Allee is a street in Berlin, Germany, running through Tiergarten Park. It's named after John Foster Dulles, the United States Secretary of State from 1953 to 1959 under President Dwight D. Eisenhower. Dulles was a significant figure during the early stages of the Cold War, advocating a policy of containment towards the Soviet Union and supporting the formation of the NATO alliance.
The naming of the street after Dulles may reflect Germany's gratitude towards the United States for its support after World War II, including the Marshall Plan, which helped to rebuild Western Europe's economy, and the Berlin Airlift, which supplied West Berlin during the Soviet blockade. It's also worth noting that during Dulles' time as Secretary of State, West Germany was admitted into NATO, further cementing the ties between the two nations.
As for the street itself, it's a prominent thoroughfare in the Tiergarten, one of Berlin's most well-known and most significant urban parks. It's home to many landmarks and institutions, including the Haus der Kulturen der Welt (House of World Cultures), a centre for international contemporary arts, and the Carillon in Berlin-Tiergarten, a large, manually played concert instrument, made up of 68 bells.
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!
