#8: Historical Journey of the Brandenburg Gate
The Brandenburg Gate, a masterpiece crafted between 1788 and 1791 under Frederick William II, was Berlin’s prime entrance. Its iconic Quadriga, inspired by Athens’ Acropolis, was once seized by Napoleon in 1806, showcasing its unique historical value.
After Napoleon’s plunder, the Gate’s crowning Quadriga was retrieved, enduring Germany’s tumultuous eras, including Nazi reign and World War II, symbolizing resilience. Remarkably, it withstood the Cold War, becoming a testament to survival and historical endurance. After undergoing restoration in the early 2000s, the Brandenburg Gate was reopened to foot traffic in 2009, maintaining its status as a vehicular no-go zone.