With dreams of a “white Christmas” vacation and images of lively Christmas markets in mind, we boarded our flight to Berlin in December 2013. Well, although snow didn’t make an appearance during our trip, we ventured out in (almost) freezing weather to experience the warmth of Berlin’s Christmas markets. The gaiety, bright lights, colorful stalls, and variety of food and drink lent a magical, festive touch to the city.
In the capital of Germany, we explored the Christmas markets, visited historical monuments, learned about the Ampelmann, spotted colorful bears (the bear is Berlin’s symbol), and spent solemn moments at two memorials.
At the beautiful Gendarmenmarkt. Berlin, Germany
Glittering Christmas Lights. Christmas Market, Berlin, Germany
Nativity Scene. Christmas Market, Berlin, Germany
Shining Stars at Gendarmenmarkt. Christmas Market, Berlin, Germany
<div>
<strong>Tracing Berlin’s History through its Monuments and Buildings</strong>
</div>
The magnificent Reichstag/Bundestag building. Berlin, Germany
<div>
Then, we continued onward to the beautiful Brandenburg Gate. This triumphal arch is an important icon of Berlin, and Germany, in general. As numerous tourists posed for pictures in this pedestrian zone, we wondered about life in the former East Berlin and West Berlin. Today, the Brandenburg Gate is a popular tourist attraction and a venue for several major events.
</div>
The majestic Brandenburg Gate. Berlin, Germany
The Berlin Wall Memorial. Berlin, Germany
Solemn Moments at the Memorial to the Sinti and Roma of Europe. Berlin, Germany
The charming Nikolai Quarter. Berlin, Germany
The special man, the Ampelmann. Berlin, Germnay
Towering above all. TV Tower, Berlin, Germany