Uncover 15 mind-blowing fun facts about Berlin you never knew

Berlin's colorful past has many chapters. This chameleon city has seen it all: from Prussian royals to World War II’s center stage, and Cold War division.

Nowadays, Berlin is vibrant and full of life, boasting a bustling cafe culture, world-famous music scene, numerous parks to explore, and plenty of hidden gems. The city embodies freedom, yet wears its heart on its sleeve, never shying away from its dark history. It’s a special place that deserves a top bucket list.

Ready to become the coolest tourist in town? Let’s dive into 15 fun facts about Berlin you never knew.

1. Berlin is older than Germany

Berlin's history stretches back much further than Germany itself. Berlin was founded in 1237 when merchants settled near what is now Museum Island. It was a capital city in the Kingdom of Prussia for over 600 years before the German Empire was established in 1871.

2. Berlin’s name is an 800-year-old pun!

Folklore claims the city was founded by Albert the “Bear,” a noble Margrave of Brandenburg. However, there is no archaeological evidence to back this up. Instead, Berlin’s name is likely from the Polish word “brl,” meaning swamp — not exactly a glamorous beginning.

As for the bear on the coat of arms, and the ensuing symbol of Berlin? It’s probably the work of a medieval marketing genius who couldn’t resist a good pun. They saw the “bear-lin” connection and ran with it, creating a city emblem that’s stood the test of time. So next time you see Berlin’s bear, remember: it’s not just a symbol; it’s an 800-year-old dad joke!

3. Napoleon stole the statue on Brandenburg Gate

The Brandenburg Gate was modeled on the gateway to the Acropolis of Athens and has a goddess pulling four horses (also known as the Quadriga) sitting atop. During Napoleon’s occupation in 1806, the French emperor had the Quadriga dismantled and shipped to Paris as a war trophy. However, when Prussian forces later captured Paris, they promptly reclaimed their iconic statue.

In a final twist, after World War II, the USSR repositioned the Quadriga. It now faces east, overlooking Pariser Platz, instead of its original western orientation. This change unintentionally symbolizes Berlin’s evolving history and its role in European politics.

4. Berlin was once the beer capital of Europe

While Belgium and Bavaria might steal the spotlight today, Berlin once wore the crown as Europe’s beer capital. In the 1900s, the city was bubbling with over 150 breweries, making it the continent’s biggest beer producer. Fast forward to today, and Berlin’s brewing scene has downsized but not disappeared. The “poor but sexy” city now boasts about 17 active breweries, with some originals still quenching thirsts in the Prenzlauer Berg district. Though no longer the beer powerhouse it once was, Berlin keeps the tradition alive — after all, beer remains Germany’s favorite alcoholic beverage. Prost!

5. Teufelsberg, Berlin’s highest “mountain” has a devilish secret

Looking for a unique vantage point in Berlin? Look no further than Teufelsberg, or "Devil's Mountain". This 120-meter-high hill isn’t just a natural wonder — it’s a man-made marvel with a wartime story.

Teufelsberg got its devilish height thanks to an unfinished Nazi college that proved too tough to demolish. So, what do you do with a stubborn building? Bury it under rubble, of course! The Allies piled up war debris, creating this accidental hill.

During the Cold War, the British and Americans turned this rubble mountain into a listening post. Today, you can hike up Teufelsberg and explore the remnants of these spy towers. Cool graffiti adorns the walls of this abandoned spot, and vendors are selling drinks. You might even get lucky and hear a live band or DJ set at the top.

6. The city was home to the royals

Berlin and its surroundings boast magnificent palaces that offer glimpses into Prussia’s royal past. While Charlottenburg Palace and Bellevue Palace are in the city center, the crown jewel, Sanssouci, lies an hour away in Potsdam. Built between 1745 and 1747, this Rococo masterpiece was Frederick the Great’s favorite residence. Its name, “without worries” in French, reflects its purpose as a retreat from court life.

Despite its modest size, Sanssouci became Frederick’s kingdom’s cultural heart, hosting luminaries like the French writer Voltaire. The palace exemplifies “Frederician Rococo,” blending opulent interiors with stunning terraced gardens.

7. Charité Hospital has been treating patients for three centuries

In the heart of Mitte stands Charité, Germany's oldest hospital. Founded in 1710 by Frederick I of Prussia, it was originally built to quarantine impoverished plague patients when the bubonic plague threatened the region. Today, it not only continues to treat patients but has also become a world-renowned medical training facility, producing several Nobel Prize-winning professionals.

This enduring institution is a testament to Berlin’s history and resilience, bridging the city's past with its innovative present.

8. Bunnies dominated the Berlin Wall's no man's land

As you explore Berlin, you might spot brass bunny silhouettes on the pavement near the former Berlin Wall. When erected the Berlin Wall overnight, it created a heavily guarded 100-meter “no man's land” between two parallel walls. This area, designed to prevent East Berliners from defecting to West Berlin, inadvertently became a haven for wild rabbits. Free from natural predators, these long-eared inhabitants thrived in the unexpected green space.

Artist Karla Sachse created 120 brass bunny pavement stones to commemorate these unlikely Cold War residents. These charming tributes serve as a gentle reminder of Berlin’s complex history and the unexpected consequences of division.

9. Berlin has the largest outdoor art gallery

Berlin’s East Side Gallery is not just the largest outdoor art gallery in the world; it’s a vibrant symbol of freedom and a testament to Berlin’s rich history. Stretching 1.3 kilometers along the remains of the Berlin Wall, this gallery features over 100 murals painted by artists from around the globe. Each artwork tells a compelling story, reflecting hope, change, and unity. One of the most famous pieces is “The Kiss” by Dmitri Vrubel, depicting the fraternal embrace between Leonid Brezhnev and Erich Honecker.

Address

Mühlenstraße 3-100, 10243 Berlin

10. Berliners are not what you think

When in Berlin, don’t miss out on trying a Berliner: a delightful donut filled with jam or custard. Although the locals are known as Berliners, this name is also commonly used for these sweet treats across Germany. This fun fact about Berlin highlights the city’s unique twist on a classic pastry. The term gained international fame when US President John F. Kennedy used it in his 1963 speech on solidarity, proclaiming, “Ich bin ein Berliner.” This declaration understandably raised some eyebrows, as it could also be interpreted as “I am a donut.”

11. Berlin's public transport could circle the globe

Berlin boasts one of the world’s most efficient public transport systems, making it a preferred choice for locals over the hassle of finding a parking spot. A fun fact about Berlin’s extensive BVG and Deutsche Bahn networks is their impressive reach. If you were to combine the total distance traveled by Berlin’s buses, trams, and trains in a year, it would be equivalent to circling the Earth 8.7 times! This incredible feat highlights the vastness and efficiency of Berlin’s public transport, making it an essential part of daily life in the city.

12. Berlin has a hidden underground world

Another intriguing fact about Berlin: nearly 40% of the city exists below ground, revealing more than meets the eye. Beneath the bustling streets lies a vast network of train lines, wartime tunnels, and bunkers. Among these landmarks are an underground brewery and the renowned Boros Collection, a contemporary art gallery housed in a former WWII bunker. This unique setting offers a fascinating blend of history and modern art, showcasing Berlin’s innovative spirit and rich cultural tapestry. Exploring these subterranean spaces unveils stories and secrets many might not know about this dynamic city.

13. Berlin is the real “City That Never Sleeps”

Berlin is renowned for its vibrant nightlife, truly living up to the title of the “City That Never Sleeps.” A fascinating fact about Berlin is that it has no official closing requirements over the weekend, allowing many clubs to remain open from Friday to Monday. This non-stop party culture is key to making Berlin unique and exciting. Forgot to pack essentials like deodorant or a toothbrush? No worries — many clubs in Berlin have you covered, offering these items for sale so you can keep dancing the weekend away without missing a beat.

14. You can shop ‘til you drop

For a shopping experience like no other, head to Berlin’s Kaufhaus des Westens, or KaDeWe, situated on the famed Kurfürstendamm, affectionately known as Kudamm. This bustling boulevard is a major shopping destination and a cultural landmark in Berlin. KaDeWe is one of Europe’s largest department stores, covering over 60,000 square meters of retail space. Whether you’re hunting for the latest fashion, beauty products, or gourmet delights, KaDeWe offers an unparalleled selection that makes it a must-visit.

Address

Tauentzienstraße 21-24, 10789 Berlin

Opening hours

Monday-Thursday 10:00 AM-8:00 PM
Friday-Saturday 10:00 AM-9:00 PM
Closed on Sundays

15. There’s a treasure trove on Museum Island

Berlin is a haven for museums, boasting an impressive 108 cultural spaces throughout the city. However, the crown jewel is undoubtedly Museum Island, located in the Mitte district. This aptly named island is home to some of Berlin’s most prestigious cultural institutions. Here, you can explore the rich collections of the Neues Museum, Altes Museum, Pergamon Museum, Bode Museum, and Alte Nationalgalerie. Each venue offers a unique glimpse into art, history, and culture, making Museum Island a must-visit destination for anyone eager to delve into Berlin’s vibrant heritage.

FAQs

What are three interesting facts about Berlin?

Berlin boasts the largest open-air gallery in the world, known as the East Side Gallery, in Friedrichshain. The city also has more museums than the number of rainy days it experiences annually, offering endless cultural exploration. Additionally, Berlin is nearly nine times the size of Paris, providing vast urban and green spaces to explore.

What are five interesting facts about the Berlin Wall?

The Berlin Wall’s fall in 1989 was unexpected. Built in 1961, it stood 15 years into the Cold War and comprised two parallel walls. Tragically, many lost their lives attempting to escape. Despite the danger, people devised ingenious escape methods, which you can review at the Wall Memorial. Additionally, the wall was often referred to by a grim nickname, and today, a section of it can be found in Las Vegas.

What makes Berlin unique?

Berlin stands out with its four UNESCO World Heritage Sites: the renowned Museum Island, the Prussian palaces and gardens, the Luther memorials, and the modernist housing estates in Hansaviertel. Additionally, Berlin has earned the title “UNESCO City of Design,” highlighting its vibrant cultural and architectural scene.

What is a surprising historical fact about Berlin?

Berlin is home to the world’s largest open-air gallery, the East Side Gallery, which is a 1.3 km stretch of the Berlin Wall. After the wall came down, artists worldwide were invited to paint murals on it, transforming a symbol of division into one of creativity and freedom.

What is an unusual cultural aspect of Berlin?

Berlin has a vibrant and diverse club scene, with many clubs located in unique venues such as abandoned factories and power plants. This creative use of space has contributed to Berlin’s reputation as a global nightlife capital, attracting music lovers and party-goers from around the world.