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Exploring German History: From the Berlin Wall to the Roman Empire

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  Germany experienced rapid economic and structural development during the 19th century due to its geographic position; trade opened up quickly through new cities; new political parties emerged to give workers a voice; however, Bismarck, King Wilhelm's Iron Chancellor was opposed. After World War II ended, Germany was divided into Occupation Zones. The Berlin Wall: Symbol of Divided Germany As soon as World War II ended, Britain, France and the Soviet Union held high-level discussions about how best to administer Germany. They decided that it should be divided into zones of occupation: British-French-US zones would become West Germany while Soviet zones became East Germany. Prior to the construction of the Wall, Berliners on both sides could move freely: crossing borders at work or school, attending movies and theater shows and using both trains and buses freely. But once constructed, this access was no longer possible. Beginning as just a barbed wire fence, escapees found ways thr

Music and Dance: The Vibrant Cultural Scene in Germany

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  Germany stands apart from theater audiences in other countries as its audience tends to support multiple production companies across many cities through season tickets, group arrangements, or bloc purchases from businesses. Artistic innovation, experimentation, and creativity flourished in Weimar Germany thanks to an increase in freedom of expression that led to many different artistic forms being explored and created. Germany's Music: History and Diversity Germany boasts a long and rich musical legacy. Beginning with Saint Hildegard of Bingen's experimentation in marrying Catholic plainchant with moral drama to today's revolutionary Kraftwerk and beyond - Germany has produced many forward-thinking composers over its history. Folk music traditions in Germany are deep-seated, with different regions developing distinct styles of traditional folk music. Oompah music and Volksmusik, both featuring brass bands with tuba players, are internationally recognized examples of Germa

Castles of Germany: Unveiling the Country's Majestic Fortresses

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  Germany remains home to many spectacular castles that play an essential role in everyday life - often serving as museums, landmarks and hotels. Neuschwanstein stands as an impressive feat of 19th-century design, its multiturreted silhouette embodying medieval architecture--inspiration for Walt Disney's Sleeping Beauty Castle. Germany's Historic Castles: Time and Majesty Lichtenstein Castle stands as one of Germany's most stunning castles and one of its most-visited attractions, featuring impressive fortifications, intricate decorations like dwarf benches and incredible valley views. Built originally as a secure stop for hunting trips to Harz Mountains during medieval times before changing hands over centuries and eventually being rebuilt as a Renaissance fortress during Thirty Years' War before finally being transformed back into Neo-Gothic style castle in 1800s. Reichsburg Castle, designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site by UNESCO, stands high above the Mosel River an

Curious German Traditions: Carnival, Christmas Markets, and more

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  Germany provides visitors with an opportunity to discover some fascinating traditions, spanning both its vibrant culture and deep historical beliefs and values. Experience the magic of German Christmas Markets on a small-group tour a Culture Trip! Be sure to sample Gluhwein, a festive mulled wine served in wooden booths. Colorful Carnival: Germany's Festive Tradition Annual carnival festivities take place all over the world, but none can compare to Germany's celebration known as Karneval or Fasching. Rose Monday (Fasching's first parade day) and Shrove Tuesday are unforgettable days, filled with themed floats, costume balls, and the celebrated tradition that empowers women by cutting men's ties off! At this time of year, children send letters to Christkind (Kriskindl) asking her for presents. Her official duties include visiting hospitals, old people's homes and children's nurseries. Families also enjoy a traditional custom to help pass the time until Christma

Discovering Germany's Contemporary Artists

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German artists' creativity can be found throughout their country; unlike in other nations where one city dominates and siphons off creativity from elsewhere. A show in Bremen or Essen may gain just as much renown as one in Berlin. "To name prominent German artists such as Georg Baselitz, Anselm Kiefer and Sigmar Polke is like reading an index of contemporary art. The future of German art is bright German artists are well known for creating groundbreaking work. Their ability to master the technical skill and anatomical accuracy allowed them to depict an extensive variety of subjects ranging from animals, landscapes and portraiture through biblical themes. Albrecht Durer of Bavaria was an artistic pioneer of his time, creating woodcuts, paintings and copper engravings with impeccable tonal contrast and proportional accuracy. Durer often included spiritual imagery in his figurative compositions. Germany became an artistic hub during the 19th Century, driven by Munich's Blue R

Innovation Nation - German Inventions That Changed the World

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  Innovation is at the center of human life and an indispensable resource in today's competitive global environment. From quick bursts of creativity from individuals or collaborative efforts, innovation plays an integral part of human existence and must remain part of everyday life to remain relevant in our rapidly-evolved environment. German inventors are world renowned for their many inventions. Oskar Barnack's pocket camera inspired spontaneous snapshots while Karl Benz created his gasoline-powered automobile; these breakthroughs forever changed lives around the globe. German Ingenuity: A History of Innovation Germany's engineers, inventors and scientists are responsible for some of humanity's most remarkable innovations - from Johannes Gutenberg's printing press to aspirin pills that help ease headaches. Some innovations were born of necessity while others are considered simply genius. German innovation is world renowned. When you see products with "Made in

Adventure Travel in Germany - Explore the Great Outdoors on a Budget

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Germany offers adventure trips for any taste imaginable; whether that means hiking the rugged sandstone formations of Saxon Switzerland, exploring creepy castles and breweries in Bavaria, or enjoying unique castle stays - whatever it may be, Germany has adventures available on a budget that is sure to satisfy. Germany is an underrated adventure powerhouse, boasting long distance trails awaiting exploration, rivers calling to be run, and cliffs to scale - perfect ingredients for an incredible adventure experience! Wild Explorations: Adventure Travel in Germany Adventure tourism is expected to recover quickly as travel restrictions outside Europe are lifted, drawing in younger travelers such as Generation Y or millennial travelers eager to try new experiences - according to a 2019 Europe Assistance Ipsos study, 59% of European millennials reported having at least one kind of adventure experience! Gen Y is more engaged in soft adventure activities like walking, camping and high ropes cour