Berlin War MemorialNeue WacheThe Berlin war memorial, known as the Neue Wache, sure is something special !!. I've been to many war memorials across Europe and North America but I have to say this one is the best. At first, you might wonder what the theme of a Berlin war memorial might be. Will it involve their Nazi past? Does it glorify the German cause? It's definately none of that. The beauty behind the Memorial to War is it's simplicity. The entire structure is made of granite and looks similiar to a Roman temple. As you walk towards it you get the feeling that you are about to enter an empty room. In the center of the room there is a single statue. It shows a mother clutching her dead child. A small opening in the dome allows the light to fall upon the statue. The whole experience is numbing. Too bad our politicians couldn't spend some time there. The building has a acted as Germany's national war memorial since 1818. However, it has gone through many changes over the years. The current memorial had it's share share of controversy when it was unveiled after the reunfication. The sculpture, known as" Mother With Dead Son", was created by Kathe Kollwit. If you have the oportunity to go early in the morning or late in the afternoon you'll miss the crowds. The light is also better later in the evening. Getting there is easy. From the Berliner Dome cross the river and head to wards the Brandenburg gate. You should be on Unter den Linden. You'll pass the Berlin war memorial ( Neue Wache ) just after you cross the river on your right hand side. It's free and open until 18h everyday. Enjoy your European Vacation!! |
