Berlin is the second most populous city in the European Union. Approximately 15.3% of the population are of foreign nationality, coming from over 180 different countries. They city’s economy is based on state-of-the-art firms and the service sector, research services and media corporations. The people are friendly, laid-back and very open minded. They call themselves ‘Berliners’ and are very friendly towards tourists.

The earliest proof of civilization in Berlin dates back to 1174 and the first written records are dated from the latter half of the 12th century. Between 1618 and 1648, The Thirty Years’ War shattered Berlin, destroying homes and almost half of the population. Berlin was then ruled by Frederick William who promoted immigration. In 1740, Frederick II came into power and Berlin became a centre of enlightenment. In the 19th century, Berlin was transformed during the Industrial Revolution and it expanded significantly. Then came trying times; World War II and the Battle of Berlin. Berlin received a large number of refugees in 1945 at the end of the war in Europe and the city was divided, corresponding to the occupation zones (Western allies and the Soviet sector). By 1953, there were signs of discontent and in 1961, East Germany started the building of Berlin Wall. It fell in 1989, when the Cold War ended. The next year, the two sections of Germany were reunited. Berlin has been through it all and it continues to take shape as a fast-growing cosmopolitan city.

Berlin’s biggest appeal is its vast array of cultural attractions. The city is home to famous museums, universities, orchestras, entertainment venues and sporting centres. The city is an important centre in the German and European film industry. Even back in the 1920’s, Berlin was referred to as the ‘City of Music and Theatre’. It has over 600 art galleries, 250 libraries, 1500 theatres and 170 museums in the city. The city’s nightlife is one of the most vibrant and diverse in Europe. As for festivals and carnivals, the annual Karneval der Kulturen brings together all the people from various cultural backgrounds. Berliners love their sports and most of them are part of clubs or participate in marathons and sports leagues.