Berlin – the city of the Bear. At least, that's the theory behind the name. And in the 12th century the city became the site of the magnificently monikered Albert the Bear's Margraviate of Brandenburg. We'll also be staying not two pfennigworth's tram ride from the zoo. So, bears are quite important for this trip.
By no means a massive supercity in population terms (3 ½ million), Berlin nevertheless has incredible importance in Europe and beyond. Featuring strongly in terms of European culture, politics and finance, everyone who has been anyone has paid Berlin a visit one way or another, whether invited or not. But this capital of the once-mighty Prussian Kingdom also projected power outwards. For as long as it has existed, the 'footprint' of German influence has been felt from Madrid to Moscow. History, it appears, has had a storm-tossed love affair with Berlin, much more so than with any other German city.
As with any first-time meeting, there is a little trepidation. Just what should be expected? Are Berliners the embodiment of suave, trans-continentally-minded 21st-century citynauts, carving out their day-to-days with neuen-Deutsch panache and eclecticism, or are they like capital people everywhere – a grumbling mix of miserable wannabees who complain about public transport? Maybe they are more the embodiment of their famous doughnut: you are what you eat.
And, of course, what will these Brandenburgers make of two pesky Anglo-Czesky-types? Not much, perhaps, unless they enjoy discussing Special Education Theory or the psychedlic significance of The Clangers 1970s children's animation. Right – time to get on the bus.
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