Germany has not one but many major cities - a result of its colorful past with many small states. And each city has its own unique character, formed by its history and the surrounding region.
Marvellous German documentary Berlin: Symphony of a City reveals Berlin of the late 1920s – announcing its Renaissance after the Great Depression.
The spirit of Renaissance is particularly strong in Berlin even now, in the beginning of the 21st century. The famous Berlin Wall went down – and the symphony of the city has gained new sounds.
Anyone moving round Berlin today can hardly imagine how, for almost 30 years, a Wall and barbed wire cut through and divided this lively, vibrant and cosmopolitan city.
Although a wall no longer divides east and west, Berlin remains a city of dichotomies. Germany's capital, the nation's largest with nearly three-and-a-half million inhabitants, is both coolly contemporary and strongly traditional. Prussian monuments and pieces of the Berlin Wall coexist with modern high-rises and trendy nightclubs. Current events and deep-rooted history maintain a strong presence for local residents, who have demonstrated a formidable ability to survive and prosper in the face of adversity and change.
Unified since 1990, Berlin is a city of great diversity and dynamism. It is the most multicultural of all German cities, boasting the rich ethnic mix of a modern metropolis, a fact that is reflected in local food, customs, and culture. Its vibrant community life is enriched by a widespread devotion to the arts. A world capital of classical music and opera, Berlin also hosts one of the best philharmonic orchestras in the world, in addition to a lively performance-art and club scene. The city's student population is encouraged to experience not only Berlin's active nightlife, but also the higher arts; a student discount is available for almost every cultural activity, including exhibits at the city's many outstanding museums.
Taste Berlin, and you will never forget it!
