Berlin is one of the most important cities in the European Union, and the world. It is a major metropolitan area and is the second-largest city in the entire EU. It is the capital city of Germany and also its most populated. Berlin happens to be a center of cultural diversity and offers a heavy hand in politics, art and the sciences. Berlin also has a rich and colorful history that is often explored by scholars across the globe.
The first two cities that made up central Berlin are Colln and Nikolaiviertal, referenced in 1237 and 1244, respectfully. In 1307 these two cities were united politically, and soon after they became known simply as Berlin. Members of the Hohenzollem family ruled Berlin as electors, kings and emperors from 1435 to 1918. In that time, Berlin was part of the magraviate before joining Prussia and finally known as the capital of Germany, which is how it exists today. During this time, Berlin went through many major changes involving the European Industrial revolutions, various shifts in geography, and all of the major artistic movements. Throughout history, it embraced these changes and has always been considered one of the most important cities in the area.
Berlin is in eastern Germany, just west of the border with Poland. A large portion pf Berlin expands into the Spree valley, which was formed by ancient glaciers and runs to the south of the city. The various boroughs of Berlin that are in this valley are on the low plateaus known as the Barnim and Teltow plateaus. The hills known as Teufelsburg and Muggelburg both represent the highest elevation of Berlin, which is 115 meters above sea level.
Out of all 16 states of Germany, Berlin is not only the capital and the most populated, it is also the largest in terms of general size. The elevation of the city fluctuates between 34 and 115 meters in height, which is measured above sea levels. This is due to the rolling hills that are found in the city. In total area, Berlin takes up 892 square kilometers. This also makes it one of the largest cities in the EU.
As a city-state, Berlin's government is composed of a House of Representatives that is run by a mayor and up to eight other representatives with ministerial duties. This government creates the laws for all 12 boroughs of the city. Berlin is a magnificent city with strong architectural styles that are included in the highest buildings in Europe, and many buildings that have a distinctive style, representative of past eras. The art and cultural aspect of Berlin is also very evident, and popular opera houses, art galleries and cinemas can be found in the city.
Berlin is one of the most significant cities in Europe, and has been the site of a number of important historical occurrences. During the 1700s, the area that today includes Germany was known as Prussia. Berlin, under the control of Frederick I, was the capital of the kingdom. At the end of the first World War, the Weimar Republic was created, noting a time where democratic and republican parties were present in the city. During World War II, Berlin was the home of Hitler and the powerhouse of Nazi Germany. Today, Berlin stands as an important center of culture, government and economy.
