Berlin 2016 - The Brandenburg Gate

The Brandenburg Gate is a monumental gate built in the 18th Century by Emperor William II. The design was based in the Propylae - the gateway to the Acropolis in Athens. It was meant as a symbol of peace after years of war during the reign of Frederick the Great. The bronze quadriga at the top of the Gate is driven by the winged goddess of peace.

 

During the Cold War the Gate was right at the border between East and West Germany. As the Berlin Wall fell on 9th November 1989 - thousands of people gathered at the gate to celebrate - and since then the gate has become a German icon for peace and reunfication.