500px Photo ID: 75897459 - Checkpoint Charlie, Berlin - preserved as a tourist attraction

Mark Heine / 500px

Checkpoint Charlie

Top choice in Historic Mitte


Checkpoint Charlie was the principal gateway for foreigners and diplomats between the two Berlins from 1961 to 1990. Unfortunately, this potent symbol of the Cold War has degenerated into a tacky tourist trap, though a free open-air exhibit that illustrates milestones in Cold War history is one redeeming aspect.


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