Berlin wall, Separation barrier and heritage monument in Berlin, Germany.
The Berlin Wall was a fortified border barrier made of concrete panels, watchtowers, and barbed wire that divided the city between its western and eastern sections. Today only scattered pieces remain, preserved at various locations throughout the city as public monuments.
Construction began in 1961 to prevent eastward migration and divided the city for nearly 3 decades. Border crossings opened on November 9, 1989, following peaceful protests, and the barrier was dismantled over the following months.
After its collapse, the structure became a canvas for artists worldwide who painted messages about freedom on remaining sections. These painted parts are now part of daily city life, where people regularly pass by or pause to take photos.
Several preserved sections are scattered throughout the city and remain free to visit, many with information panels on site. Walking or cycling works best for exploring the different locations, as most are near metro stations.
In some spots the border ran so close to buildings that windows were bricked up to prevent escape attempts. One apartment building on Bernauer Straße became part of the barrier itself, and residents sometimes tried jumping from upper floors.
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