Thursday, January 19, 2012

Brief History of Berlin

via Buzzle

Berlin, the capital of Germany, has been an important economic, cultural and political center of Europe. Known for its distinguishing culture and history, Berlin is also one of the hot tourist destinations in Germany. As Germany is located in the heart of Europe, Berlin had been one of Europe's most influential trading centers since the 13th century. History of Berlin is full of events. According to the Germany facts and information, Tacitus, a historian of the Roman Empire, named the area on the other side of the river Rhine as 'Germania'. Here is an overview of the history of Berlin, the capital of Germania.

Brief History of Berlin

- Berlin is one of the 16 states of modern Germany, and also the capital city of Germany. It was founded in the 12th century, and is considered as a relatively young city. The Slavic tribes had settled down in this area since the 6th century. A mixture of Prague-Korczak culture is reflected through ancient history of Berlin. Various tribes settled down along the rivers Elbe, Oder, Havel, and Spree. The early settlement of the Havelli led to the foundation of Spandow (today's Spandau) on the river Havel. Settlement of the Sprevane along the river Spree led to the development of today's district of Berlin-Köpenick. The area which later developed as the city of Berlin, was mainly occupied by the Slavic tribes, till the 12th century.

- The Roman Emperor Lothar II had granted the Northern March to the German leader Albert the Bear, after the Wendish Crusade. Cölln and Berlin were founded by Otto and Johann, the grandsons of Albert the Bear, in 1237 and 1244 respectively. In 1709, Cölln and Berlin were unified under the name of Berlin. At that time, the total population was 60,000, out of which 5,000 had been recruited in the Prussian Army. In 1713, a wooden wall surrounding the city of Berlin was built by Frederick William. The wall was known as Zoll und Akzisemauer, and it had 14 gates. In 1806, French troops entered into Berlin. The beginning of self government thereafter, had a great impact on Berlin's history.

Humboldt Universität, photo by David Basanta


Humboldt Universität, photo by Cory Wendorf


Humboldt Universität, photo by Yukino Miyazawa


Humboldt Universität, photo by Eichental


Humboldt Universität, photo by micadoX


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