A broken chain a symbol of division. This is Berlin the sculpture. It stands tall on Tauentzienstrasse. Created by Brigitte and Martin Matschinsky in 1987 it commemorates a divided city. Berlin the sculpture was unveiled during Berlin’s 750th anniversary. It was part of a project called Skulpturenboulevard Kurfürstendamm. Eight sculptures were created for this event. Only three remained after the anniversary. Berlin the sculpture is one of them.
The sculpture’s design is unique. Four steel tubes rise into the air. Each tube is about two meters wide. Concrete reinforces their bases. The tubes tilt then loop. They almost touch symbolizing the closeness and isolation of East and West Berlin. The chrome nickel steel surface changes appearance throughout the day.
The sculpture’s location is significant. It sits in front of the Kaiser-Wilhelm-Gedächtniskirche. The church was heavily damaged during World War II. The Matschinskys chose this site intentionally. The sculpture became a symbol of hope. It represented the city’s desire for reunification. After the Berlin Wall fell the city purchased the sculpture. It is now a lasting tribute to a difficult period in German history. Berlin the sculpture reminds us of Berlin’s resilience. It serves as a reminder of the city’s ability to overcome adversity. The sculpture stands as a powerful symbol of reunification. It reflects Berlin’s complex past and its enduring spirit. Berlin the sculpture stands tall a testament to Berlin’s strength.