Germany> Destinations

Brandenburg

Brandenburg is a federal state of Germany that encircles Berlin. It is located to the east with Potsdam as the capital city. This city is also a World Heritage site. Brandenburg borders Poland and Saxony on German land, and the breathtaking Elbe and Oder rivers run alongside its territory. The rivers Spree and Havel flow through Brandenburg itself.

The state consists of 15 districts and four independent towns. It has excellent connections to all major destinations with three international airports in the region. A major holiday resort and popular vacation area, it has over 3000 beautiful lakes and a water surface of 30 000 km total. It has castles dating back to Prussian rule, gardens included in UNESCO's world heritage list, remarkable monasteries and museums, excellent entertainment venues and accommodations, and last but not least, the exciting atmosphere of nearby Berlin, perfectly translated in this setting.

An interesting aspect from a cultural point of view is La Clemenza di Tito, Mozart's opera, which is to be performed in Potsdam. It was composed on account of Leopold II being crowned King of Bohemia. The opera house, which will provide the setting, is a monument in itself with its high ceilings, exquisite decorations and lovely golden lustre. The opera will be presented from November 25 to December 13 this year.

If you are planning a trip to this region in December, be sure to visit the Potsdam Dutch Christmas Market. This is the tenth annual celebration of the arrival of Santa Claus. You can sample a variety of delightful dishes and drinks here, like Dutch cheese, Dutch gin and other treats from Holland.

You might start a tour of Potsdam from the old market square. There are remnants of the historical sites here, like the old town hall, the church and the royal stables. A boat trip is recommended - some marvellous sightseeing tours are offered. As the ship slowly drifts through the water, you will find yourself surrounded by gorgeous gardens and landscapes, featuring the Babelsberg Castle and Park, Peacock Island, the Marble Palace, and many other attractions.

Sanssouci Castle is easily reachable from the new market. The castle grounds feature picturesque fountains and balconies, lengthy tree-lined lanes and remarkable Baroque architecture, dating back to the reign of Frederick the Great of Prussia. Another important attraction is Albert Einstein's house. This was his summer residence from 1929 to 1932. Caputh Castle is also in this area, with its vast, remarkable area and admirable structure. Completed in 1662, its hall and gardens are exceptionally noteworthy.

Boitzenburg is an elegant and elite castle in a historical plan, which tourists should not miss. Built in the 1500s, it is among the biggest German castles with a Renaissance façade. It was also fully refurbished of late, as it is now a luxury hotel, offering comfortable surroundings and excellent accommodations and ensuring that guests feel like the aristocrats who lived here ages ago.

Brandenburg has been a proudly independent land and the backbone of Germany throughout history. In the early ages it was inhabited by Slavic tribes, finally driven out in the early 1100s by the Saxons. Nonetheless, the state's population includes many Slavs even today.

Brandenburg became a Protestant state in 1539 and enjoyed prosperity, extending its territory greatly in the age that followed. This had a negative effect, as the state lost its vital internal connections and suffered when the Thirty Years' War erupted. The land was gradually rebuilt in the years that followed. Frederick William I played an important role in this. His son remains in history as Frederick the Great.