Checkpoint Charlie, Berlin

Checkpoint Charlie stands as a poignant historical landmark nestled in the heart of Berlin, Germany. This former border crossing point, emblematic of the Cold War era, once served as a symbol of the division between East and West Berlin. Officially known as the "Checkpoint C," it was the third checkpoint opened by the Allies in the city and became the most renowned crossing point between the two sides.

Checkpoint Charlie gained notoriety during the Cold War, as it was the only crossing point where foreigners and members of the Allied forces could pass from West Berlin into East Berlin and vice versa. The name "Charlie" comes from the NATO phonetic alphabet, following Checkpoint Alpha and Checkpoint Bravo. It was the scene of several standoffs between U.S. and Soviet tanks, the most famous being in October 1961, which nearly escalated into armed conflict.

Today, Checkpoint Charlie is a must-visit sight for history enthusiasts and tourists alike. Although the original guardhouse was removed after the fall of the Berlin Wall, a replica has been installed on the site. Visitors can see actors dressed as military policemen, recreating the atmosphere of the checkpoint during its operational years. The nearby Checkpoint Charlie Museum, or Mauermuseum, offers a deeper dive into the history of the Berlin Wall and the stories of those who attempted to escape from East Germany.