Anyone who decides to rent a vacation apartment in Berlin Spandau will learn to appreciate the proper character of this district that has still reserved a certain independence. Although Spandau has been a district of Berlin since 1920, it is often perceived as a completely different city.
Probably the most significant building in Spandau is the Zitadelle (bastille), that traces back to the 16th century. For this defiant fortification in island position at the confluence of Spree and Havel, Italy served as a model. The bastille, since its restoration now opened to visitors, it also served as a prison and treasury next to military purposes.
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Whereas most of the parts of Berlin are rather characterized by Wilhelmine or modern architecture, the history of the historic centre near the bastille goes back even further into the past. A predecessor building of the Nicolai church, constructed in the style of north German brick Gothic, dates back to the time around 1200, just like the first fortifications of Spandau. Every year the winding, narrow alleys of the historic centre of Spandau form the framework for the biggest christmas market in Europe.
Besides Spandau that is rich in waters and forests also has a lot to offer as an recreatioal location. At the same time, modernity has also left its marks on Spandau.
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