Alexanderplatz. Alexanderplatz, or, as locals call it, “Alex” was the second important transport flyover before the Second World War. The square got its name in 1805, in the memory of the visit of Russian tsar Alexander I. During the war Alexanderplatz was ruined and later reconstructed. Thanks to this reconstruction, the square became larger, but it was surrounded by typical buildings with rather a boring design, such as the Stadt Berlin Hotel and the Kaufhof department store. The square itself was turned into pedestrian zone, surrounded by streets. The centre of Eastern Berlin was created this way. The fountain in the centre of the square is still one the most popular places with young people. However, the main point of interest is located not in Alexanderplatz, but nearby. This is the local TV-tower, which is 368 meter high. The tower is known as the highest building in Berlin. There is an observation deck at the height of 203 meters, from which everyone is welcome to enjoy the beauty of the city from a bird’s-eye view. There is also an unusual restaurant there. The restaurant moves slowly, and makes a complete circle in half an hour. When the sky is clear, visitors can see a great panorama of the city with a distance of 40 kilometres. When the weather is sunny, a big cross appears on the metallic revetment of the tower. Locals call it “the revenge of the Pope” – without a doubt, such an optical effect wasn't foreseen by the strict antireligious regime of GDR.
Reichstag. Reichstag is the local house of parliament, but at the same time this is one of the main attractions of Berlin. After the arson of 1933 and the bombing of 1945 the government had to move to Bonn. Reichstag was restored only in 1999. Since that time it has become a permanent place of parliament sessions. The huge glass cupola on the roof of the building keeps catching everyone's attention. Tourists are welcome to get upstairs by using a special staircase for visitors. From that place they will be able to see the hall for plenary sessions. The bottom of the cupola is the location of a cozy restaurant with a wonderful view.
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