East Side Gallery
Dive into the fascinating history of Berlin and discover the unique East Side Gallery in Berlin-Friedrichshain. This open-air gallery stretches along the longest remaining section of the Berlin Wall and was created in spring 1990 by 118 artists from 21 countries. Here, you’ll find not just art, but also a significant symbol of freedom and reconciliation. Experience firsthand the vibrant history of Berlin and be inspired by the diverse artworks and this unique Berlin attraction.
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East Side Gallery: Open-Air Gallery on 1.3 km of the Berlin Wall
The East Side Gallery in Berlin-Friedrichshain is more than just an artwork – it’s a fascinating relic of history and a living testimony to political upheavals. Along Mühlenstraße, this permanent section of the Berlin Wall extends between Berlin Ostbahnhof and Oberbaumbrücke along the Spree. In spring 1990, 118 artists from 21 countries painted a length of 1316 meters to comment on the political changes of the years 1989/90. The gallery is located on the hinterland wall, which once closed off the border area to East Berlin.
The gallery houses some of the most famous and iconic artworks, which continue to serve as symbols of freedom and peace. Works like “The Fraternal Kiss” by Dimitrji Vrubel and Birgit Kinder’s Trabant breaking through the wall are not only part of the Berlin art scene but also popular postcard motifs that attract visitors from around the world. The diversity of paintings in the East Side Gallery reflects the pulsating, free-spirited atmosphere of Berlin, combining surreal images with powerful political statements and expressive graffiti.
However, over the years, the artworks have undergone changes. Vandalism and weathering forced some artists in the 1990s to partially or completely recreate their works. To ensure the long-term preservation of these cultural treasures, extensive restoration work was carried out from 2008 to 2009. During this process, the paintings were destroyed to restore the masonry. Many artists took this opportunity to recreate their works, either in their original form or with new interpretations.
The East Side Gallery, which is under monument protection and maintained by the Berlin Wall Foundation, was extensively restored in 2009 to preserve its historical value. Despite repeated controversies and discussions about the protection and preservation of the monument, it remains a significant symbol of freedom, peace, and reconciliation. As a living piece of history, the East Side Gallery attracts thousands of visitors annually who want to experience the moving history of the Berlin Wall up close.
History
The former border installations along the Spree had special significance during the division of Berlin. The East Side Gallery is located on the former border strip, where the Spree separated the area between Friedrichshain and Kreuzberg. The hinterland wall, known as “Border Wall 75,” was a rare architectural feature here and served as a “protocol route” for high-ranking GDR visits. The history of the wall is documented through historical traces like the preserved Mühlenspeicher and later erected water alarm detectors. Yet, these border installations were also the scene of tragic events, with at least five fatalities occurring during escape attempts or dramatic accidents in the Spree. The history of these places reminds us of the deep human costs of the Berlin Wall.
Visitor Information
Address
Mühlenstraße 4
10243 Berlin
East Side Gallery & Berlin Wall Tickets: Tours & Guided Tours
Visit The Wall Museum at the East Side Gallery and enjoy the luxury of skipping the line. Learn about the exciting history of Berlin during the Cold War in 13 rooms through films, documents, and interviews. Discover the impact of the war on the city, experience the construction and fall of the Berlin Wall, and uncover the truth behind this significant structure that forever changed the face of the city.