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ABOUT BERLIN
/ BERLIN GUIDE
Berlin is the capital city and
one of the sixteen states of the Federal Republic of Germany. It is
the heart of the Berlin-Brandenburg metropolitan region, located in
north-eastern Germany. With a population of 3.4 million, Berlin is
the country's largest city, and the second most populous city within
city limits in the European Union.
Berlin is one of the most influential centres in European politics,
culture and science. The city serves as an important hub of
continental transportation and is home to some of the most prominent
universities, sporting events, orchestras and museums. Its economy
is based on the service sector, encompassing a diverse range of
media and life science corporations, convention venues, research
institutes, and creative industries.
The rapidly evolving metropolis enjoys an international reputation
for its festivals, contemporary architecture, nightlife and
avant-garde arts. Berlin is a major tourist centre and home to people
from over 180 nations, Berlin is a focal point for individuals who
are attracted by its liberal lifestyle, urban eclecticism and
artistic freedom.
First documented in the 13th century, Berlin became successively the
capital of the Kingdom of Prussia (from 1701), the German Empire
(1871-1918), the Weimar Republic (1919-1932) and the Third Reich
(1933-1945). After World War II, the city was divided. East Berlin
became the capital of the GDR (East Germany), while West Berlin
remained a West German enclave surrounded by the Berlin Wall from
1961-1989.Following the reunification in 1990, the city
regained its status as the capital of all Germany.
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