Paradox of gritty and sacred
Written: Mar 17 '00
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Product Rating:
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Pros: Convenient landmark, poignant symbolism
Cons: Scary locals
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| FoxTamer's Full Review: Kaiser-Wilhelm-Gedächtnis-Kirche |
The Gedächtnis-Kirche stands as a shattered monument in a modern square reminiscent of a (slightly) toned-down Times Square, surrounded by ugly visions of modern, boxy concrete buildings. Cartoonish light from massive marquis signs spills into the square and across the face of the old church, and an endless torrent of chaotic Berlin traffic washes around it. The presence of s sacred building in the midst of all this gritty materialism is quite arresting, and the fact that the church is a ruined shell of its former self illustrates the rise of alternately businesslike and sensualist Berlin over any of its more spiritual historical origins. At night the area takes on a vibrant street-party feel with somewhat seedy and dangerous undertones: adjoining train station crowds and a small but intense strip-club district attract city denizens of all persuasions, including a significant population of pickpockets and aggressive beggars.
Gedächtnis-Kirche is a useful landmark for some tightly-grouped sights in Western Berlin. It's just around the corner from famous Berlin Zoo Station, the terminus for most major rail routes from the West. Just to the north lay a few western-style luxury hotels and rental car agencies along the edge of the Zoological Garden. To the south spans the Ku'Damm, Berlin's focal point of conspicuous consumption, lined with world-class clothiers, jewelers, tailors, and other caterers to the very rich. More affordable "pension" hotels are common off Ku'Damm to either side. The church's distinctive appearance and its proximity to so many of Western Berlin's accommodations make it a useful geographical epicenter for the tourist focusing on this part of the city.
Recommended:
Yes
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Epinions.com ID:
FoxTamer
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Reviews written: 17
Trusted by: 6 members
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