Since
reunification in 1990, Alexanderplatz has been one of the most important
locations in Berlin. In addition to the
large complex of S-, U- and regional train stations, it is also one of the
most recognizable locations in the city to meet thanks to the towering TV Tower
nearby and the World Clock located within.
While some other areas changed significantly after reunification,
Alexanderplatz has undergone more of a gradual change. The most significant changes to the area are
with the public transport stations, having to be restored from the years of
abandonment during the Wall.
On the surface, it is harder to
tell that things have been changed. This
is due to buildings, both new and old, designed and restored to maintain the
identity and designs of the past. The
most notable example is the Galeria Kaufhof whose design in both material and
construction closely match the historic buildings next to it. Buildings, new and old, both took on different
occupants – fast food restaurants and other chain-stores are some of the most
notable. Additionally a cinema has moved
back into the area adding to the continued life of the area.
5 comments:
I agree Alex seems to be a very popular meeting spot, especially with the younger population. Do you think the types of people that have gone/ met there has changed as the space has changed? Why do you think that is?
Alex is still a meeting place for younger people as it used to be before 1989. However, people now have other central locations to meet (in West Berlin and in other areas of former East Berlin). This might contribute to changes over time.
I can't believe that the TV tower at Alexanderplatz has turned into a major symbol of Berlin. Does anyone know why the TV tower was originally built at Alexanderplatz?
I find it so interesting that it is such a popular location for young people to meet. I mean there seems to be a bit of shopping and its central ish but beyond that what really makes it different from any of the other major stations... maybe we will have to ask someone next time we are there... and Brookyln I'm not sure why that was the exact location, maybe it had to do to with signal strength and proximity to the most amount of people? But the Berlin.de website says it was built "to demonste the superiority of socialist societies." So maybe they wanted it clsoe enough for the West Berliner to see everyday
I have no source for this, but I think you're right Jen. I remember reading something about the TV Tower, and it was placed due to its central location. As a side effect, it became that symbol of East Berlin's strength over West Berlin, much like the Mercedes-Benz logo near the zoo.
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