Berlin is the capital city and one of sixteen states of Germany. Founded in the 13th century, Berlin has had an eventful history. At the end of the 12th century, the city emerged from the two merchant settlements Berlin and Colln, located on both sides of the Spree river in what is now the Mitte borough. In January 2008, state archaeologists found an oak beam that probably dates back to 1192, making Berlin 45 years older than was previously assumed. The excavations took place at Petriplatz, one of the oldest places in the city. Almost no other metropolis has experienced such frequent, radical change transforming the face of the city. Although Berlin saw steady growth in its importance, dazzling epochs alternated with darker eras. Nevertheless, the formerly divided city has succeeded in becoming a vibrant metropolis in the heart of Europe.
Berlin has a moderately cool and humid climate determined by a mixing of air masses from the Atlantic Ocean and the continental climate of eastern Europe. During the summer, the city enjoys continual sunshine and gorgeous cool nights. Daytime temperatures reach a pleasant 23°C (73.4°F). Rain is possible in any month, so come prepared. From November to early March, skies tend to be gloomy. Winters in contrast are cold and damp, but rarely extreme. Snowfall is common but rarely causes inconvenience, and temperatures just below freezing. Rain can fall all year round, but the wettest months are June and August, and the driest on average October and February.
In the last years, Berlin’s economy has undergone fundamental structural change. The growth of the service sector has gone hand in hand with a decline in industry and construction. Small and medium-size companies are key to Berlin’s economy. Along with electrical engineering, food products, chemicals, mechanical engineering, and motor-vehicle manufacturing are some of Berlin’s traditionally strong sectors. In addition to construction and the skilled trades, which are usually organized in small businesses, trade and services also play a major role.
Compulsory schooling begins for Berlin students at age seven and lasts for nine or ten years. Most children are tested at age ten for aptitude and then placed in a Hauptshule or Realshule for vocational trades, a Gymnasium for academics, or a comprehensive Gesamtschule, which teaches all trades. Those from the Gymnasium finish school with their exams while children from the Realschule continue on to technical school, or Fachobershule, and polytechnic university, or Fachhochschule. Education through post-graduate work is free for all, including foreigners. There are three major universities in Berlin: Freie Universitat Berlin, Technische Universitat Berlin and Humbolt Universitat zu Berlin. There are numerous other colleges that cater to more particular professions and trades. Berlin is also home to a large number of foreign students that come to the international city to learn the German language.
The Berlin public transport system is efficient and expensive, it consist of trams, buses, ferries, the U-Bahn (underground) and S-Bahn (commuter rail) reaches every part of the sprawling city and its surrounds. U-Bahn means "Untergrund-Bahn" or underground train (subway / metro) - as the name implies, it runs largely below ground, although there are some elevated sections. The U-Bahn is run by the BVG, Berlin's transport company. There are 9 lines, all numbered; as with the S-Bahn trains only show the destination, but there are line maps on the platforms and on trains to help navigation. Berlin has a complex bus network; at every bus station you will find a complete and accurate timetable of the bus. Taxis are plentiful, but it is cheaper to hail one in the street than to call ahead at one of the many call stands around the city. Cycling is highly recommended in Berlin, as it is easy and safe. Cycle lanes are a pleasure to follow especially around the Tiergarten park area.
The impressive and symbolic is Brandenburg Gate, it was commissioned by Friedrich Wilhelm II to represent peace. The Gate was designed by Karl Gotthard Langhans, the Court Superintendent of Buildings, and the main architectural design of this landmark hasn't changed since it was first constructed in 1791. Ironically the gate was incorporated into the Berlin wall during the years of Communist government. The Brandenburg gate is probably the most well-known landmark in Berlin, it now stands as a symbol of the reunification of the two sides of this great city.
Although relatively new the Jewish Museum in Lindenstrasse has already gained an international reputation for its significant architecture and unique exhibitions that bring history alive.
The coveted Silver and Golden Bears of the Berlin International Film Festival are the symbol of achievement in one of the top events in the film industry. The Berlinale has become one of the biggest and most reputable festivals in the international business of artistic media and film, where world-class filmmakers launch their latest achievements under various categories in the competition. Film screenings are shown in a variety of festival cinemas, and different events include filmmaking workshops, and opportunities for young producers and directors to screen one-minute films during the festival.
Many festivals are celebrated widely in Berlin. A festival of Berlin, which is extremely popular among the residents and which is famous throughout the world is Love Parade. This annual parade is held to celebrate the re-unification of Berlin, techno music and dance, and everything that is out-of-ordinary and wacky.
