A multicultural metropolis that has maintained an unpretentious international village like ambience, Berlin is one of the most historically significant cities in the world. Berlin’s tangible history is manifest in the countless museums located across the city which delineate both global and local history in the form of exhibitions and galleries in addition to the streets that tell a story about Germany’s past. When staying with thesqua.re in Berlin, discover the rich history of this city.
Neues Museum
Formerly a ruin after it sustained bombing during 1945, the Neues Museum was repaired and rebuilt by British architect David Chipperfield. In addition to the story told through original walls, textural details and almost lost frescos, Neues Museum contains renowned artefacts such as a Neanderthal Skull, Heinrich Schliemann’s Trojan antiquities and a bust of Egyptian Queen Nefertiti.
Cost: Adults €10, concessions €5, under-19s free.
Bauhaus Museum
Although Berlin isn’t often grouped with London, Paris and New York, the city has long been a centre for creativity and design. Berlin is the spiritual home of Bauhaus, one of the most influential schools of architecture, art and design in the 20th century. Featuring original sculptures, ceramics and furniture, Bauhaus is the apotheosis of architectural modernism.
Cost: adults €7, concessions €4
Bernauer Strasse
Witnessing some of the most tragic scenes as the city was divided in 1961, Bernauer Strasse was the scene of numerous East Berliners’ attempts to escape to freedom. Now, the Berlin Wall Memorial is located in Bernauer Strasse. Featuring an unadorned stretch of the wall and a museum, Bernauer Strasse is a symbol of the compliance, heroism and iniquity of East and West Berliners during those tragic years.
Cost: Free
Currywurst Museum
Currywurst is synonymous with Berlin. With over 70,000,000 curried sausages consumed in the city every year, the Currywurst Museum celebrates Berlin’s civic dish. Learn more about the history of the famous currywurst, from its humble roots to the “currywurst war”. With some of the best souvenirs in Germany, each visitors is given a complimentary currywurst in a cup.
Entrance: adults €11, concessions €8.50, children €7, under-6s free
Museum Berggruen
In 1940, Heinz Berggruen purchased his first painting- a $100 watercolour by Paul Klee. Over 50 years later, Berggruen donated his extensive collection to the city of Berlin. Valued at over $450m, the museum features over 150 paintings by Matisse, Klee, Giacometti and Braque. This intimate gallery is situated outside Schloss Charlottenburg, with guided tours available.
Cost: Adults €6, concessions €4.