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Berlin, Germany

We had day two of museums today and visited the Pergamon Museum which is considered one of the top three in the world of its type. I have loaded a collection of photos which will do most of the talking on the visit as Museums are something to experience more than an interesting dialogue. And to be honest there was so much there to see by the time we finished we could not remember details from half way through the visit!

What is special about the Pergamon is that it has several huge reconstructions using the original items from excavations etc and some fill-ins so this brings things to life in a 3D and real time atmosphere – far more than looking at a picture of what it ‘looked like’ or seeing a pile of rubble or stand alone pieces.

Key ones photographed are the Pergamon Alter, Ishtar Gate, Market Gate, Mshatta Facade, and Allepo Room. It also has ancient collections from the near East – Assyrian, Sumerian, Babylonian, and Iran dating back as far as the 12th century BC.

We both really enjoyed our time there and it made us wish that we lived somewhere closer to great museums so we could spend more time looking and learning. As mentioned before I am realising just how skilled man was long ago from my modern technological aged brains perspective. I suppose I thought we were so advanced compared to back then and in many respects we are – but mankind (and women) have always been artistic and skilled in their craft and early engineering. When I looked at the jewellery and glass I thought that it could be exactly what would be produced today and charged a good price for. The colours and patterns and love of bling are timeless.

We spent more time there than planned – but it was so interesting that time flew and we hadn’t even had lunch! We grabbed a very late coffee and cake overlooking the river and Dom (cathedral). Interesting street art nearby is 4 statues of naked young people perched on a wall on the riverside – not sure what it is about but they are popular and fascinating to look at as they are incredibly life like and detailed – and life size. Ah more great art!

Our hotel is called Adina “Checkpoint Charlie” because of its location, so before going home we detoured to check it out. It feels strange to think that not that long ago Berlin was divided yet there is little evidence of the wall and division now. It must have been awful to be on the East side and not have the simple freedom of movement and see life moving on from behind a wall. Even worse of course for families divided.

As we walked back to the hotel which is about 8 minutes away from Checkpoint Charlie, it dawned on us that we had no idea whether we were on the east or west. Of course we asked the nice receptionist (male) and guess what? We are in East Berlin – so close to the wall line you could have thrown a stone over so we are told. It does explain all the apartments around the block!

We enjoyed a home made German meal Abi style, and look forward to another good nights rest – both feeling a little tired at the moment. Tired but happy 🙂

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