/>/>/>/>Contents
Introduction_ 2
1. Germany: general information_ 3
1.1 Thehistory of Germany_ 3
1.2Germany land_ 5
1.3Culture & population_ 7
1.4Germany’s economics & government 9
1.5German’s Money & Costs 11
1.6German’s communications & education_ 12
2. Tourism in Germany_ 14
2.1Germany by car 14
2.2Discover Germany by Bus 15
2.3 Airtravel 15
2.4Travel by train_ 16
2.5Castles & Palaces 17
2.6 Metropolises 18
Conclusion_ 31
Literature 33
Introduction
Germany wears its riches well: elegant big-city charm,picture-postcard small towns, pagan-inspired harvest festivals, a wealth of artand culture and the perennial pleasures of huge tracts of forest, delightfulcastles and fine wine and beer are all there for the enjoying.
Germany's reunification in 1990 was the beginning of yetanother chapter in Germany's complex history. No visitor will remain untouchedby this country's past and the way it affects the nation today.
The full country name is Federal Republic of Germany, it’stotal area — 357,030 sq km. The major industries in Germany:motorvehicles, engineering, chemicals, iron, steel, coal, electronics, environmentaltechnology, food, clothing.
Germany is popular among the tourists. The German climateis variable so it's best to be prepared for all types of weather throughout theyear. That said, the most reliable weather is from May to October. Thiscoincides, naturally enough, with the standard tourist season (except forskiing). The shoulder periods can bring fewer tourists and surprisinglypleasant weather. There is no special rainy season.
1. Germany: generalinformation 1.1 The history of Germany
Germany's hill-and-trough history kicked in early: from thetime that everyone's favourite fossils, the Neanderthals, left theirjaw-jutting remains in the Neander Valley near Düsseldorf, this joint hasbeen in the thick of it. All of Europe's great empires got their paws intoGermany, but none was ever able to count all its inhabitants as faithfulsubjects. Different pockets of fierce resistance met the Roman legions (50 BCto the 5th century AD), the Frankish conqueror, Charlemagne (up to the early9th century), and Otto the Great's Holy Roman Empire (from late in the 10thcentury). By the time the house of Habsburg, ruling from Vienna, took controlin the 13th century it was little more than a conglomerate of German-speakingstates run by parochial princes.
The Habsburgs muddled on until the devastating Thirty YearsWar (1618-48), sparked by ongoing religious and nationalist conflicts. Europehad been simmering ever since 1517 when Martin Luther tacked 95 suggestions forimproved service to his local church door in Wittenburg. It took a bloody goodstoush to settle everyone down and secure the rights of both Protestants andCatholics. Germany lost a third of its population in the process. Local princesassumed complete sovereignty over a patchwork of some 300 states, which made itall too easy for Napoleon to come along in the early 19th century and startadding them to his scrapbook. The French never quite managed to subdue Prussia,which became the centre of German resistance. It was Prussia that led the 1813war that put an end to Napoleon's German aspirations in a decisive battle atLeipzig. In 1866 Otto von Bismarck, chancellor of Prussia, annexed most ofGermany, consolidating his position as biggest wig in Europe with a resoundingvictory over France in 1871. The Prussian king, Wilhelm I, was instated asKaiser and a united Germany hit the world stage for the first time.
Wilhelm II dismissed Bismarck in 1890, lingered long enoughto lead Germany into WWI, then snuck off to Holland in 1918 when he realisedwar wasn't going to end in a ticker-tape parade. Germany struggled with civilunrest and a disastrous peace, uniting only in dislike of the reigning WeimarRepublic. Then came Adolf Hitler, an Austrian drifter and German army veteranwho was able to turn general disaffection into a focussed lunacy. In 1933 hisNational Socialist German Worker's (or Nazi) Party assumed ultimate authorityover Germany. Extravagant military spending and blasé border bendinggave way to outright aggression, WWII, and the unrivalled horror of theHolocaust. Even the Germans were surprised by the success of their initialinvasions, but by 1943 a litany of heavy losses set the tone for the sluggishmarch to 1945's unconditional surrender.
Postwar Germany was divided up between the Allies, withBritain, France and the USA consolidating the western portion into the FederalRepublic of Germany, and the Soviet zone transmogrifying into the communistGerman Democratic Republic. This formula for division was repeated in Berlin.West Germany received massive injections of US capital, attracting many workersfrom the miserable economic conditions in the East until some bright spark hadthe idea of building a wall around West Berlin and sealing the rest of theborder. The Cold War's icy eye focussed on Berlin. Over the next 25 years WestGermany became one of the world's most prosperous nations while its communistSiamese sibling suffered. The collapse of communism in Eastern Europe has nomore poignant symbol than the opening of the Berlin frontier. That was one ofworld history's better parties at the Berlin Wall in late 1989.
As a result of the reunification of Germany, the HelmutKohl era was recorded as one of the most dramatic periods in the country'shistory. After 16 years, however, it came to an end when a coalition of SocialDemocrats and Greens took office in 1998. Two years later, an investigation waslaunched which uncovered that Kohl and his conservative Christian DemocraticUnion party had operated a slush-fund in defiance of the German constitution.
Today's united Germany has its problems, but the socialdislocation which was widely forecast has been minimal. Although the euphoriaof reunification has subsided, and there is some resentment and disaffectionfrom both sides, Germany is working towards true unity in typically sedulousfashion. The extreme right wing, although insidious and occasionally violent,is politically weak. Germany has absorbed the majority of refugees from theformer Yugoslavia, and these and other immigrants are targets of renewed racistattacks.1.2Germany land
The Habsburgs muddled on until the devastating Thirty YearsWar (1618-48), sparked by ongoing religious and nationalist conflicts. Europehad been simmering ever since 1517 when Martin Luther tacked 95 suggestions forimproved service to his local church door in Wittenburg. It took a bloody goodstoush to settle everyone down and secure the rights of both Protestants andCatholics. Germany lost a third of its population in the process. Local princesassumed complete sovereignty over a patchwork of some 300 states, which made itall too easy for Napoleon to come along in the early 19th century and startadding them to his scrapbook. The French never quite managed to subdue Prussia,which became the centre of German resistance. It was Prussia that led the 1813war that put an end to Napoleon's German aspirations in a decisive battle atLeipzig. In 1866 Otto von Bismarck, chancellor of Prussia, annexed most ofGermany, consolidating his position as biggest wig in Europe with a resoundingvictory over France in 1871. The Prussian king, Wilhelm I, was instated asKaiser and a united Germany hit the world stage for the first time.
Wilhelm II dismissed Bismarck in 1890, lingered long enoughto lead Germany into WWI, then snuck off to Holland in 1918 when he realisedwar wasn't going to end in a ticker-tape parade. Germany struggled with civilunrest and a disastrous peace, uniting only in dislike of the reigning WeimarRepublic. Then came Adolf Hitler, an Austrian drifter and German army veteranwho was able to turn general disaffection into a focussed lunacy. In 1933 hisNational Socialist German Worker's (or Nazi) Party assumed ultimate authorityover Germany. Extravagant military spending and blasé border bendinggave way to outright aggression, WWII, and the unrivalled horror of theHolocaust. Even the Germans were surprised by the success of their initialinvasions, but by 1943 a litany of heavy losses set the tone for the sluggishmarch to 1945's unconditional surrender.
Postwar Germany was divided up between the Allies, withBritain, France and the USA consolidating the western portion into the FederalRepublic of Germany, and the Soviet zone transmogrifying into the communistGerman Democratic Republic. This formula for division was repeated in Berlin.West Germany received massive injections of US capital, attracting many workersfrom the miserable economic conditions in the East until some bright spark hadthe idea of building a wall around West Berlin and sealing the rest of theborder. The Cold War's icy eye focussed on Berlin. Over the next 25 years WestGermany became one of the world's most prosperous nations while its communistSiamese sibling suffered. The collapse of communism in Eastern Europe has nomore poignant symbol than the opening of the Berlin frontier. That was one ofworld history's better parties at the Berlin Wall in late 1989.
As a result of the reunification of Germany, the HelmutKohl era was recorded as one of the most dramatic periods in the country'shistory. After 16 years, however, it came to an end when a coalition of SocialDemocrats and Greens took office in 1998. Two years later, an investigation waslaunched which uncovered that Kohl and his conservative Christian DemocraticUnion party had operated a slush-fund in defiance of the German constitution.
Today's united Germany has its problems, but the socialdislocation which was widely forecast has been minimal. Although the euphoriaof reunification has subsided, and there is some resentment and disaffectionfrom both sides, Germany is working towards true unity in typically sedulousfashion. The extreme right wing, although insidious and occasionally violent,is politically weak. Germany has absorbed the majority of refugees from theformer Yugoslavia, and these and other immigrants are targets of renewed racistattacks.1.3Culture and population
Unsurprisingly for a country whose land has so often beenat history's crux, the moods and preoccupations of Germany's people arereflected in a rich artistic heritage: from the claustrophobic beauty of itscathedrals to classical films from the silent era of cinema, from the mostinfluential philosophers (try Kant, Hegel, Nietzsche and Marx for starters) tosome of the world's great physicists (Einstein and Planck), from the cream ofclassical composers (Bach, Beethoven, Brahms, Handel and Wagner) to contemporaryindustrial-grunge music and Krautrock, from the genius of Goethe to therevolutionary theatre of Brecht, Germany has it all. The scope of German art issuch that it could be the focus of an entire visit.
Arguably the finest artist Germany has produced, JohannWolfgang von Goethe (1749-1832) was a poet, dramatist, painter, scientist andphilosopher. His greatest work, the drama Faust, is a masterful epic of allthat went before him, as the archetypal human strives for meaning. The ghost ofGoethe inhabits the soul of Germany. Germany has also been endowed with manyexceptional visual artists. The gothic sculpture of Peter Vischer and his sons,the renaissance portraiture of Albrecht Dürer and the baroque architectureof Balthasar Neumann are all magnificent examples in their fields. A steadfastcommitment to excellence in artistry persists in more recent forms, withGermany a notable producer of excellent and challenging cinema from RainerWerner Fassbinder and Werner Herzog, among others.
Germany's artistic diet, rich though it is, has nothing onits food. This is traditionally a meat-and-potatoes kind of country. Thoughvegetarian and health-conscious restaurants are starting to sprout, it's bestto stop counting calories and cholesterol levels while in Germany. The assaultbegins with a good German breakfast: rolls, jam, cheese, cold meats,hard-boiled egg and coffee or tea. To be fair, many Germans have switched tolighter breakfasts like cornflakes or muesli, but visitors can still be servedthe traditional cut meat and jam. Lunch is the main meal of the day, butbreakfast is so big you'd be forgiven for just picking up a midday bratwurstfrom the ubiquitous Imbiss (takeaway-food stand). Dinner is allegedly a lightermeal, but this can still mean a plate full of sausages and dumplings. (Lighteaters may want to opt for international cuisine from Germany's immigrantcommunities.) Beer is the national beverage and it's one cultural phenomenonthat must be adequately explored. The beer is excellent and relatively cheap.Each region and brewery produces beer with a distinctive taste and body.Impromptu visits to small breweries are better than adding your bulk to thealready crowded festivals like Munich's Oktoberfest. In winter, you canexperience the glorious haze induced by Glühwein, a hot, spicy mulled wineguaranteed to take the chill away.
Despite their penchant for continual improvement andmodernisation, upholding cultural traditions is dear to the German heart. Manyhunters still wear green, master chimney sweeps get around in pitch-black suitsand top hats, some Bavarian women don the Dirndl (skirt and blouse), whiletheir menfolk occasionally find suitable occasions to wear typical BavarianLederhosen (leather shorts), a Loden (short jacket) and felt hat. In everydaylife, Germans are fairly formal, although more so in the Protestant-dominatednorth than the beer-swilling south. In eastern Germany many older people arerelatively unused to tourists, so it's best to err towards deference. Except withvery close friends, older Germans still use Herr and Frau in daily discussion.The transition from the formal Sie address to the informal du is generallymutually agreed and sealed with a toast and a handshake. You don't have toworry so much with people under about 40; in fact, exaggerated politeness willprobably be laughed off as beginner's Deutsch.
The German population is overwhelmingly urban. In 1994Germany had 39 cities with more than 200,000 residents, and 12 metropoliseswith more than 500,000 residents. Three of Germany’s federal states arecity-states: Berlin, Bremen, and Hamburg. Berlin is the capital and largestcity. Germany’s population density is highest in the northwest, especially inNorth Rhine-Westphalia (Nordrhein-Westfalen), which includes Germany’s oldindustrial heartland, the Ruhr Valley, and a number of large cities. Populationdensity is lower in the former East Germany and in the more rural states ofSchleswig-Holstein, Lower Saxony (Niedersachsen), and Bavaria.
Characteristic of Germany, throughout its history, has beenthe lack of clearly defined geographic boundaries, particularly on the greatlowland of northern Europe; both the area occupied by the German peoples andthe boundaries of the German state (at such times as it existed) havefluctuated constantly. The German people appear to have originated on thecoastal region of the Baltic Sea and in the Baltic islands in the Bronze andearly Iron ages. From about 500 BC they began to move southward, crushing andabsorbing the existing Celtic kingdoms; from 58 BC onward they clashed alongthe line of the Rhine and Danube rivers with the power of Rome. With the fallof the Roman Empire, German peoples, predominantly under Frankish triballeadership, closely settled a large area west of the Rhine River in what isstill German territory; they also penetrated deeply into Belgium and areas thatlater became France. The Merovingian and Carolingian empires knew nodistinction between what are now France and western Germany; it is understandablethat Charlemagne is recognized as an important figure in the history of bothcountries. 1.4Germany’s economics and government
Germany’s economic development was based on an alliance ofindustrial business people with the Prussian aristocracy who controlled much ofthe land. It emphasized the production of coal and steel, machines and machinetools, chemicals, electronic equipment, ships, and, later, motor vehicles.Well-organized business, labor, and farm associations in league with thegovernment produced a distinctive “organized capitalism,” different from theless regulated capitalism of Britain and the United States. This strong economycarried the country into two world wars and, despite Allied bombing from 1942to 1945, survived largely intact. After World War II ended in 1945, the Westernpowers saw the need to build up European economies in order to resist thethreatened encroachment of the Soviet Union and Communism. To this end, theU.S. government in 1947 initiated the European Recovery Program, commonlycalled the Marshall Plan, which offered generous investment loans to allEuropean countries that had been devastated by the war. Under the stewardshipof economics minister Ludwig Erhard, the Marshall Plan helped launch a 20-yeareconomic expansion in West Germany that raised living standards and industrialproduction far above prewar levels.
West Germany's economic achievement was impressive; thegross national product (GNP) rose by 8 percent per year from 1951 to 1961, orat a per capita rate double that of Britain or the United States and nearlydouble that of France. At the same time exports trebled. This period ofexceptional growth was undoubtedly an outstanding event in the economic historyof both West Germany and Europe. Yet the postwar advance of the West Germaneconomy did not follow an unbroken line; there were occasional checks, as, forexample, the one following the oil crisis of 1973–74. However, the upward trendwas always resumed. At the moment of economic unification on July 1, 1990, theeconomy was riding high on a cycle of business expansion that had lasted sincethe early 1980s. West Germany's gross domestic product (GDP) had increased atcurrent prices by more than 70 percent since 1983; it was by far the highest ofall the 12 EC countries, constituting one-quarter of the community's total. Thecountry ranked fourth in the world for GDP, following the United States, Japan,and the U.S.S.R., and it was a leader in world trade. All this was achievedwhile maintaining the customarily low rate of inflation. West Germany was thuswell prepared to sustain the economic shocks of unification with the muchweaker economy of former East Germany, even though these proved to beconsiderably more severe than anticipated.
Germany possesses the world's third most technologicallypowerful economy after the US and Japan, but structural market rigidities — including the substantial non-wage costs of hiring new workers — have madeunemployment a long-term, not just a cyclical, problem. Germany's agingpopulation, combined with high unemployment, has pushed social security outlaysto a level exceeding contributions from workers. The modernization andintegration of the eastern German economy remains a costly long-term problem,with annual transfers from western Germany amounting to roughly $70 billion.Growth picked up to 3% in 2000, largely due to recovering global demand; newlypassed business and income tax cuts are expected to keep growth strong in 2001.Corporate restructuring and growing capital markets are transforming the Germaneconomy to meet the challenges of European economic integration andglobalization in general.
The Basic Law has many affinities with the constitutions inthe Anglo-American democracies and its predecessor, the Weimar Constitution(upon which it drew heavily). The parliamentary form of government incorporatedmany features of the British system, but, since West Germany, unlike GreatBritain, was to be a federation, many political structures were drawn from themodels of the United States and other federative governments. In reaction tothe unitary state of the Nazi era, the Basic Law gave the states considerableautonomy, much of which has been eroded by constitutional amendments, fiscaldevelopments, and a political insistence on uniform living conditionsthroughout the Federal Republic. In addition to federalism, the Basic Law hastwo other features similar to the Constitution of the United States: (1) itsformal declaration of the principles of human rights and of bases for thegovernment of the people and (2) the strongly independent position of thecourts, especially in the right of the Federal Constitutional Court to declarea law unconstitutional and void. 1.5German’s money and costs
Currency: euro (EUR), formerly Deutschmark (DM)
Budget: US$5-9
Mid-range: US$10-20
Top-end: US$25+
Lodging
Budget: US$20-50
Mid-range: US$50-100
Top-end: US$100
It's easy to spend lots of money in Germany. If you've gotsome sort of rail pass and restrict yourself to cheap takeaways or prepare yourown food, it's possible to get by on less than US$50 a day. Those with morecapacious wallets, wishing to eat at mid-range restaurants most days, to travelfreely by public transport and to stay in mid-range hotels with fluffy duvetsshould count on dropping at least US$100 a day.
All the major international brands of plastic — MasterCard,Visa and American Express — are becoming more widely accepted, especially atmajor hotels, petrol stations and department stores. Don't assume that you'llbe able to use your card to pay for meals; inquire first. ATMs are ubiquitousthroughout Germany and you should have no problem accessing your credit ordebit account back home. Foreign currency, including travellers cheques, can beexchanged at banks and special exchange shops in large towns.
At restaurants, the service charge is always included inbills and tipping isn't compulsory, though it is appreciated. Germans are usedto rounding up prices as tips, but rounding up in euros can be too generous.Taxi drivers expect a small tip of around 10%.1.6German’s communications and education
Germany has one of the world's most technologicallyadvanced telecommunications systems; as a result of intensive capitalexpenditures since reunification, the formerly backward system of the easternpart of the country has been modernized and integrated with that of the westernpart domestic: Germany is served by an extensive system of automatic telephoneexchanges connected by modern networks of fiber-optic cable, coaxial cable, microwaveradio relay, and a domestic satellite system; cellular telephone service iswidely available and includes roaming service to many foreign countriesinternational: satellite earth stations — 14 Intelsat (12 Atlantic Ocean and 2Indian Ocean), 1 Eutelsat, 1 Inmarsat (Atlantic Ocean region), 2 Intersputnik(1 Atlantic Ocean region and 1 Indian Ocean region); 7 submarine cableconnections; 2 HF radiotelephone communication centers; tropospheric scatterlinks.
German school attendance in Germany is free and mandatoryfrom age 6 to age 14, after which most children either continue in secondaryschools or participate in vocational education until the age of 18. Kindergartenis not part of the public school system, although before unification EastGermany had a nearly universal system of childcare facilities. Under the treatyof unification, the East German public education system was required to conformto the model in use in West Germany. Education in Germany is under thejurisdiction of the individual state governments, which results in a great dealof variety. Most states in the former West Germany have a three-track systemthat begins with four years of Grundschule (primary school), attended by allchildren between the ages of 6 and 9.
2. Tourism in Germany
All German cities have developed an excellent network ofsurface and underground transportation. With buses, subways and rapid-transitrailways, destinations can be reached quickly and easily at a reasonable price.2.1Germany by car
If you are traveling by car, an ultra-modern and efficientfreeway network awaits you. Over 700 restaurants, gas stations, motels andkiosks are open day and night to travelers driving across the approximately 11,000 km freeway network of the Federal Republic.
Maximum Speeds:
For cars without trailers traveling outside city limits, amaximum speed of 100 km/hr applies. Within city limits, the speed is 50 km/hr.City limits are clearly marked by signs. On freeways, a speed of 130 km/hr isrecommended. Cars with trailers (i.e. campers) may drive at a maximum of 80km/hr on roads and freeways.
Important rules:
According to the law, seat belts must be worn by allpassengers in the car. For children under 4 years of age, child seats arerequired, and children under 12 years of age must use child seat cushions.Motorcyclists must drive with a helmet. The blood alcohol limit is.05. Beforebeginning their journey, it is a good idea for tourists to purchase informationabout traveling by car in Germany from the automobile clubs.
Like arteries, Germany's autobahns link its pulsatingeconomic centres. Day and night you can drive on 11,000 kilometres of open road – with no tolls and often with no official speed limit – unlikeanywhere else in the world. But it is better, really, to take your time – andkeep to the guideline of 130 kilometres per hour (approx. 80 mph). Enjoy the clean environment; take advantage of the perfect road transport connections and ofthe individual products and services on offer at the more than 700 filling stationsand service areas along the way.2.2Discover Germany by Bus
Touring Germany by bus: a comfortable way of travelling.Enjoy your trip in comfortable seats without having to care about the traffic.Conscientious and well trained drivers will do the driving for you. Whether youchoose a package tour, a long distance tour on a public service bus or anintercity trip by public transportation: a journey by bus will guaranteecomfortable travelling. Enjoy and experience towns and landscapes in a relaxingway. Lean back and enjoy the view of diverse landscapes from large bus windowsor visit one of Germany´s famous towns.
Get on and relax — once you are comfortably seated, yourwell-earned holidays will begin. Besides, you have chosen an environmentallyfriendly way of travelling.
Internationaler Bustouristik Verband e.V. (RDA), theinternational federation of bus tour operators, has set up a list of operatorsoffering bus journeys. The list is set up according to the Lands of the FederalRepublik of Germany and is available here. Here you will find numerous journeysbased on particular themes, sightseeing tours and club tours. It is alsopossible to set up your own journey in cooperation with the operator. DeutscheTouring GmbH offers attractive journeys on public service buses along Germany´stouristic holiday routes.
Regional and urban public transportation operators andassociations offer a rich network of short distance bus trips.2.3 Airtravel
Over 100 international airlines offer flights into Germany.Deutsche Lufthansa offers the most frequent and most versatile flights togetherwith their Star Alliance partners. They have coordinated a global route networkand flight plans which connect Germany with 700 destinations worldwide.International travel
Lufthansa is one of the world's leading airlines andprovides connections to Germany from more than 300 airports in 100 countries. Thanksto the Star Alliance, the world's first multilateral airline cooperation,passengers can travel to Germany from more than 800 airports worldwide.Coordinated flight schedules guarantee your comfort and help keep waiting timesshort. In Germany, Lufthansa flies to 28 airports: Cologne Cathedral is just 40minutes by air from the Frankfurt Messeturm, and the Brandenburg Gate in Berlinis 65 minutes away. As well as eighteen international airports, Germany alsohas numerous domestic airports, such as Münster and Augsburg. This meansyou can travel quickly between any of Germany's larger towns — from Westerlandon the North Sea island of Sylt to Munich in the South, and from Cologne in theWest to Dresden in the East.2.4Travel by train
The railway system enables everyone to travel comfortablyto their destination. There are good connections to both distant and localareas. Airports (Berlin Schönefeld, Düsseldorf, Munich and Stuttgart)are also merged into this system. There are 60 different connections to theneighboring European countries that originate daily in Germany. The customsclearance usually takes place on the train once it has left the station.Information regarding the Deutsche Bahn AG can be obtained in all travelagencies as well as by calling the federal German phone number: +49 (0) 1805-99 66 33. A European bus service completes the railway system. It offersspecial connections on particularly interesting routes to tourists. Informationregarding the bus system is also available in each travel agency.
2.5Castles & Palaces
Although the walls of Germany´s castles are centuriesold, they are nowhere near to being withdrawn from the public gaze. Set highabove adjacent towns dating back to the Middle Ages and often in romanticlandscapes, they make an extremely dynamic impression as tourist attractions.Sustained by the enormous interest shown in their mostly turbulent histories,colourful festivities and feasts are re-enacted within their ruins, whichstunningly and authentically revive and recreate the Middle Ages. You can experiencethe spectacle of jousting, minerals and real banquets. Country markets withtraditional skills and crafts, fancy-dress pursuits and street theatre arepopular, and form a link to the myths and legends which every castleaccumulates.
Castles and palaces in Germany stage these festivities allyear round. In spring you can choose between Spring festivals, May markets,Pentecost markets and historic pastoral dances. Or you can visit a traditionalcake and waters festival of the salt workers, enjoy a Kaiserburg (imperialcastle) concert in the knights´ hall and then plunge into a mediaevalspectacle with the small traders´ market. After the midsummer nightfestival you can welcome in the new season at a «Musical summer » inthe «Serenadenhof». The long days become even longer with castlesilluminated with brilliant fireworks, and blues nights in the palace courtyard,and if your ears are still not ringing after the wine festival, we canrecommend the open air concerts in the castle courtyard or serenades at the«gunpowder» tower. However, there are also alternatives in the ruins,e.g. a samba festival, rock in the castle moat, a Dracula piece or real Baroquefireworks. Autumn is varied with harvest festivities, wine festivals, ovenfestivals, garland festivals and many music and theater festivals. In Novemberand December there is only the one widespread event, and that is theunforgettable Christmas Markets with centuries old traditions.
A single mediaeval banquet is a fantastic time-travelexperience to a different world. Fresh bread, for example, is baked in thecastle courtyard, and home-made cream cheese and butter is produced. Gourmetsexpect delicacies like a Burgundy roast, grilled Camembert and excellent winesand new wines. In addition they expect home-made fare, which has been baked andbrewed according to old recipes. Minstrels and jugglers, knights, noblemen andwomen, monks and quacks in original costumes, colorful flags and big colorfulcoat-of-arms provide the historic atmosphere.
In the evening when the firework display is in progress,the entire castle mound is illuminated like a volcano, and the Catherine-wheelslet the Middle Ages culminate with a festive finale.2.6Metropolises
Become fascinated by Germany´s big cities pulsatingwith life. Besides Berlin, the capital, Germany offers many regionalmetropolises. The unique character of each of these cities bear the imprint ofGerman history and culture. The cosmopolitain flair of these cities make everyvisitor feel welcome.
However, you cannot only experience most modernarchitecture and art treasures in Germany´s towns but also different waysof living. Various traditions and mentalities have left an imprint on each town´scultural life and night life, variety of events, shopping and gastronomy.Enchanting Towns in Germany
For many centuries, Germany´s small historic townshave been genuine jewels with various facets. Here, you can find a variety ofarchitecture and styles which is worldwide unique and each town itself is afascinating experience.
Middle Ages and Modern Age — Germany´s small townsderive their dynamics from this contrasting mixture. They are as individual ashuman visages — each town having its distinct identity.
These towns, however, also attract visitors with the modernand vital facets of Germany: enjoy shopping tours, events, excursions or theculinary delgihts of Germany´s regional specialities.
Berlin, the Capital
In Berlin one can feel the pulsating liveliness. A varietyof art- and flea markets, museums, bars, pubs, restaurants, opera houses,concert halls, theatres, vaudevilles and revues is awaiting the visitor.
Hosting the whole world – Berlin is ready. Berlin,Germany's capital, is nowadays more exciting than ever. Evolutions and changesare to be witnessed everywhere in the city.Museums
Berlin's museums present art works of internationalappreciation. More than 170 museums invite to see collections of the worldculture such as the Pergamonaltar or the bust of Nofretete, painting works fromGiotto and Breughel over Caspar David Friedrich and Picasso to contemporaryartists. Spectacular new buildings like the Filmmuseum or the Jewish Museum andthe reopening of great museums like the Old National Gallery enhance the fascinatingrange of Berlin's museums.Jewish Berlin
After the reunification the Jewish community has growncontinuously. Several restaurants, theaters and music performances representJewish life especially in the area around Oranienburger Straße. The NewSynagogue Berlin — Centrum Judaicum and the Jewish Museum Berlin trace theGerman-Jewish history. Reminding of the destruction of Jewish life during theNational Socialism, there are locations such as the House of theWannsee-Conference, the foundation «Topography of Terrorism» and theplanned memorial for the murdered Jewish in Europe.Palaces and Gardens
In Berlin and Brandenburg a splendid cultural landscape ofPalaces and Gardens became established over the course of several centuries ofBrandenburg and Prussian monarchy. The harmonic ensembles of architecture andgarden art in the cultural landscape enchants the visitors in Berlin andPotsdam. Discover the charm of past times in the beautiful SchlossCharlottenburg with its marvellous baroque garden.
Schloss Charlottenburg, the largest and most beautifulpalace in Berlin, is a shining example of baroque architecture.
It was built from 1695–99 as a summer residence for SophieCharlotte, the consort of Elector Friedrich III., to plans by Johann ArnoldNering and Martin Grünberg, though at first only the central part wasactually built. In 1701, after the coronation of the Elector as King FriedrichI. of Prussia, the palace was extended by Eosander von Göthe in the styleof the palace at Versailles: the main building was extended and side axes werecreated around the courtyard. In addition, the Great Orangery was constructedon the western wing, while a domed tower with tambour crowned the mainbuilding. Knobelsdorff constructed the eastern wing from 1740–46. From1787–91,Carl Langhans constructed the palace theatre as an extension to the orangerywing.
The palace was badly damaged during the Second World War,and rebuilding work began in the Fifties. The splendor of the Berlin Baroque isparticularly apparent in the Great Oak Gallery, a banqueting hall withmagnificent carvings which was completed in 1713, and the Porcelain Room, withits valuable collection of Chinese and Japanese porcelain. Other impressiverooms include the banqueting halls designed by Knobelsdorff from 1740–47, theWhite Room and the Golden Gallery, a rococo room in soft pastel tones with richgolden ornamentation. The former theatre is now the home of the Museum fürVor- und Frühgeschichte (Museum for Pre- and Early History), whose mostfamous exhibits come from Heinrich Schliemann's excavations at Troy.
The palace park grounds, one of the most idyllic oases inthe city, is a favored spot for both tourists and Berliners. The park featuresa mausoleum constructed by Schinkel in the style of a temple, which containsamongst other the sarcophagi of Queen Luise and Friedrich Wilhelm II., designedby Christian Daniel Rauch. The belvedere, formerly a teahouse and built byLanghans at the same time as the theatre, now displays an exhibition on thehistory of royal porcelain manufacture. The pavilion constructed by Schinkel inthe classical style, formerly a summer house, is the perfect setting for thefurniture, pictures and sculptures on display there, conjuring up the life andstyle of the early 19th century.
A paradisiacal place for lovers is the Peacock Island(Pfaueninsel) and its romantic little manor-house. Pfaueninsel and its palaceis without a doubt one of the most lovely excursions in the city. Here, in anundisturbed, idyllic Prussian Arcadia, the visitor can experience one ofBerlin's most magical faces.
The romantic palace lies on the idyllic Pfaueninsel, partof the extensive landscape laid out by Peter Joseph Lenné. Until hisdeath, Lenné transformed the area around the Havel Lake between Berlinand Potsdam into a unique ensemble of cultivated nature and architecture. ThePfaueninsel, which can only be reached by ferry, became a work of artconsisting of landscaped gardens and park with a rosebush maze, a Biedermeiergarden and around 60 peacocks. A stroll around is rewarded with constantlychanging views and picture-postcard buildings, such as the old dairy and thecavalier's house redesigned by Schinkel.
Pfaueninsel Palace was constructed from 1794–97 as a lovenest for Friedrich Wilhelm III. and his then sweetheart Gräfin Lichtenau. Followingthe current fashion the architect Johann Gottlieb Brendel created artificialruins which give the illusion of being a medieval castle. The white woodencladding and the trompe d'oeil paintings are intended to accentuate thisillusion. The palace's interior is furnished in a romantic-exotic style, and ismaintained in such a good condition that the taste of the time can beexperienced first-hand.Eat, Drink, Nightlife
Berlin offers a wide range of possibilities to go out. Restaurants,Pubs and clubs of all kind and for every gusto invite you. Many places andstreets are perfect night walks because one restaurant is here next to theother.
Night owls with stamina can also give their undividedattention to the interesting range of pubs around Savignyplatz inCharlottenburg. The area consist of a great number of restaurants and barswhere everyone can meet the stars of television or Berlin's culture andpolitical scene. Here is the melting pot that combines symbolically the formerwest and the new centre to a harmonic construction.
Especially the younger crowd is attracted to the PariserStraße. At this location you will find taverns, bars, American diners,Mexican restaurants and very modern and stylish discos. During the summer lifeconcentrates on the street in form of many chairs and tables that invite us torest. In the middle of this street the well-maintained Ludwigkirchplatz withits rich areas of green providing a relaxing shadow is located.
The Winterfeldtplatz forms a location for a frequentlyvisited market where plenty of customers, tourists and locals meet each otherin one of Schöneberg's numerous taverns and bars. The scene is consideredas uncomplicated and various-faced, also due to the presence of Berlin's gaypopulation.
In Goltzstraße the Schönebergers meet in placessuch as the Café M, Lux or one of the numerous Indian snack bars.Between Schöneberg and Tiergarten the 90º is still an up-to-date partylocation. But the Latinamerican Clubs El Barrio or the Caracas Bar invite for avisit as well.
For starting your tour through Berlin's nightlife youshouldn't miss the Hackesche Höfe. Here you will find a huge variety offamous restaurants, bars and clubs. Additionally, Mitte offers numerous facetsto enjoy its culture in form of theatres, cinemas, art galleries and a varieté.
For night owls there are, for example, options for thefollowing night walks: Along Oranienburger Straße (Mitte) betweenOranienburger Tor and Monbijouplatz there is one bar after the other, such asthe Zapata (Tacheles), Zosch, Oren, Silberstein or Hackbarth's.
Representatives of Berlin's legendary club scene, such asthe Kalkscheune, are also just around the corner. Thus the famous Tresor is nottoo far away (Potsdamer/Leipziger Platz).
The Heckmannhöfe and further courtyards worth to seewith galleries and cafés are on the way to the legendary HackescherMarkt, which is a hive of activity, not only in the Hackesche Höfe(courtyards) in front of the station. Clubs such as the Oxymoron, DeliciousDoughnuts, Lime Club, Bergwerk or Delis attract their public from all over theplace. The selection of bars and restaurants is just about the limit.
The Prenzlauer Berg definitely also forms one of the mostvisited areas at night. Russian and Jewish restaurants are enriching the offerof food styles. Around the Kollwitz-Platz one can almost experience a worldtrip considering the variety of existing restaurants.
Beginning your tour at Wasserturm and Kollwitzplatz thearea around Schönhauser Allee and Greifswalder Straße is one singlenightwalk. Whether Torpedokäfer or Café Soda in the Kulturbrauerei,(a vast complex, Knaackstraße), Pasternak or Luna-Bar, the number of Cafésand Pubs is a legend.
Clubs such as Duncker, Knaack or Magnet offer live music,nightlocations such as the Dolmenclub, the Icon, H2O Bar, Prater or Coffyinvite you to night dances.
At this location the dishes of truly exclusive restaurantsare very delicious. After a special dining experience you can stroll for noblybars enjoying the unique sight. If you are lucky you even might meet a famousstar or politician that is appreciating the Gendarmenmarkt just as well.
Gendarmenmarkt is one of the most beautiful squares inEurope – a must for every tourist. Here the Deutscher Dom (German Cathedral),the Französischer Dom (French Cathedral) and the Konzerthaus create abeautiful architectural ensemble.
The square was laid out from 1688 to the plans of J.A.Nering; it was originally known as Linden Markt, then FriedrichstädtischerMarkt or Neuer Markt. Because the square was used by a curassier regiment«gens d´arms,» from 1736–82, complete with sentry boxes andstables, the name Gendarmenmarkt arose. From 1777, the square was developedaccording to unified plans drawn up by Georg Christian Unger. It was badlydamaged in the Second World War; on the occasion of the 250th anniversary ofthe Prussian Academy of the Sciences (Akademie der Wissenschaften), it wasrenamed «Platz der Akademie,» but its previous name was restored in1991.
Französischer Dom (French Cathedral)
The French Cathedral was built from 1701–05 to the designsof Cayart, as a church for Berlin's Huguenot community, thus the reason for itsname. The narrow side of the rectangular main building has semicircularextension wings. From 1780–85, the imposing tower was added to plans by Gontardand Unger as part of the redesigning of Gendarmenmarkt. The cathedral, whichwas badly damaged in the war, was rebuilt from 1977.
Deutscher Dom (German Cathedral)
From 1701–08, the German Cathedral – also known as the NewChurch – was built by Giovanni Simonetti to plans to M. Grünberg. From1780–85, Carl von Gontard extended the building with the addition of the domedtower, during the redesigning of the Gendarmenmarkt. The cathedral wasdestroyed in the Second World War and reopened on October 2, 1996 followingcomplete restoration. Konzerthaus/Schauspielhaus
The Konzerthaus is the new building designed by KarlFriedrich Schinkel to replace the Nationaltheater built from 1800–02 by KarlGotthard Langhans, which was burnt to the ground in 1817. The conception of theKonzerthaus integrates the remains of Langhan's rectangular building and adds ahigher, wider, gabled solidium in the center, complete with an ionic columnedhall projecting at the front. Following its destruction in the Second WorldWar, the building was initially only made safe, and the systematic restorationof the original design only began in 1979. Since its reopening in 1984 it hasserved not as a theatre, but as a concert hall.
In the small lanes of the historical Nikolaiviertel(Nikolai quarter) the traditional Berlin returns to life. Mitte's taverns andbars are waking local traditions due to their old-fashioned atmosphere and thetypical homemade dishes served. Especially tourists are appreciating this partof Berlin for its direct position beside the Spree River and for its numeroussouvenir shops. The pictured Nikolai-church with its roots form the 13thcentury is one of Berlin's oldest maintained religious buildings.
Gendarmenmarkt is one of the most beautiful squares inEurope – a must for every tourist. Here the Deutscher Dom (German Cathedral),the Französischer Dom (French Cathedral) and the Konzerthaus create abeautiful architectural ensemble.
The square was laid out from 1688 to the plans of J.A.Nering; it was originally known as Linden Markt, then FriedrichstädtischerMarkt or Neuer Markt. Because the square was used by a curassier regiment«gens d´arms,» from 1736–82, complete with sentry boxes andstables, the name Gendarmenmarkt arose. From 1777, the square was developedaccording to unified plans drawn up by Georg Christian Unger. It was badlydamaged in the Second World War; on the occasion of the 250th anniversary ofthe Prussian Academy of the Sciences (Akademie der Wissenschaften), it wasrenamed «Platz der Akademie,» but its previous name was restored in1991.
Französischer Dom (French Cathedral)
The French Cathedral was built from 1701–05 to the designsof Cayart, as a church for Berlin's Huguenot community, thus the reason for itsname. The narrow side of the rectangular main building has semicircularextension wings. From 1780–85, the imposing tower was added to plans by Gontardand Unger as part of the redesigning of Gendarmenmarkt. The cathedral, whichwas badly damaged in the war, was rebuilt from 1977.
Deutscher Dom (German Cathedral)
From 1701–08, the German Cathedral – also known as the NewChurch – was built by Giovanni Simonetti to plans to M. Grünberg. From1780–85, Carl von Gontard extended the building with the addition of the domedtower, during the redesigning of the Gendarmenmarkt. The cathedral wasdestroyed in the Second World War and reopened on October 2, 1996 followingcomplete restoration.
Konzerthaus/Schauspielhaus
The Konzerthaus is the new building designed by KarlFriedrich Schinkel to replace the Nationaltheater built from 1800–02 by KarlGotthard Langhans, which was burnt to the ground in 1817. The conception of theKonzerthaus integrates the remains of Langhan's rectangular building and adds ahigher, wider, gabled solidium in the center, complete with an ionic columnedhall projecting at the front. Following its destruction in the Second WorldWar, the building was initially only made safe, and the systematic restorationof the original design only began in 1979. Since its reopening in 1984 it hasserved not as a theatre, but as a concert hall.
In the meantime the Simon–Dach–Straße has proved tobe 'the' place to be in Friedrichshain. The avant-garde is meeting in bars,taverns and clubs that attract visitors for their different life style.
Between Ostbahnhof and Ostkreuz, you will find something ofeverything: on the one hand «scene» clubs, such as the well-knownCasino (you will find some of the most well-known DJ's there, e.g. Paul vanDyk) or Matrix, on the other hand Die Tagung – a small place on a nostalgiatrip that is stuffed full of weird and wonderful memorabilia of bygone EastGerman days.
Kreuzberg with its Oranienstraße is offering avariety of multicultural cuisine styles. Besides restaurants from all over theworld such as the Amrit and the Kafka, bars, cafés and taverns likeAlibi and Franziskaner attract the young and trendy population. Altes Kaufhaus(former Trash) and Roses, Schnabelbar and SO36 are buzzing with young peopleuntil the early hours of the morning. In the Wiener Straße and at GörlitzerPark is plenty of action as well, proved by numerous Cafés and pubs(Morena, Madonna, Wiener Blut and as a new location the Privat Club). Shopping in Berlin
In Berlin everyone likes to go shopping in his owndistrict. Therefore in nearly every district shopping malls and centers reflectthe character of their inhabitants.
Besides the well known shopping boulevards like Kurfürstendammor Friedrichstraße many more destinations tempt to stroll, shop andlinger at the numerous cafés. Every part of the city has its own centerwhich might be worth a visit.
The upper part of Kurfürstendamm and the followingTauentzienstraße form a shopping paradise especially referring to theyounger crowd for the existence of famous international labels like H&M,Bennetton and Zara which may be found right next to each other.
Walking from the Adenauerplatz the boulevard is convertinginto a more exclusive and tranquil zone. Big trademarks just like Jil Sander orYves Saint Laurent have their fashion shops at that area.
The byroads of Kurfürstendamm form a perfect detourfor their rich offer of small shops with extraordinary products. The streetswith their splendid architecture of the turn of the century on Uhlandstraßeand Ludwig-Kirch-Platz not only invite to quarry in the numerous stylish shopsthat offer posh design and fashion but tempt to relax at the many picturesquecafés and restaurants just as well.
Friedrichstraße is spreading a flair of the twenties.With its newly decorated buildings, exclusive offices and coffee shops one canexperience a breeze of New York life spirit in the heart of Berlin.
Friedrichstraße is the most legendary street in thewhole city and combines the tradition of the «Golden Twenties» withthe architecture of the New Berlin. In the Twenties, the 3.5 km long street was the location for pleasure palaces, cafés, theatres and variety theatressuch as the famous «Wintergarten».
After the division of the city, the Wall also cut throughFriedrichstraße, where the famous »Checkpoint Charlie was located at theborder of the districts of Kreuzberg and Mitte and thus at the border of Eastand West Berlin. The train station at Friedrichstraße, which has recentlyundergone complete renovation, remains rather more tragically in the minds ofmany East and West Berliners as the border crossing point between the twoGermanys. The former customs hall, known as the «Tränenpalast»or «Palace of Tears», now hosts arts and entertainment events.Further north, the Friedrichstadtpalast offers revue theatre of internationalstanding.
On the southern half of Friedrichstraße there arecountless new buildings, including the Friedrichstadtpassagen, with boutiques,offices and restaurants featuring the latest in architectural design. Shoppingand window-shopping in the French fashion is the attraction of the GaleriesLafayette, located in the Quartier 207: on offer are a range of Frenchspecialties, particularly in the delicatessen. The impressive design created bythe architect Jean Nouvel boasts a transparent glass façade and anatrium which tapers towards the bottom. The connecting Quartier 206, which ishome to the boutiques of countless top designers, boasts an extravagant Art Décostyle. Not only visitors but also the employees from the new, chic offices,agencies and media centers all enjoy the urban spirit and New York flair of thenew Friedrichstraße.
The centre of Spandau with its charming old-fashionedbuildings is tempting to stroll from shop to shop. Neat boutiques with anunique atmosphere are turning a shopping tour in Spandau into a specialpersonal event.
This traditional shopping boulevard consists of a hugenumber of shops and department stores. All kinds of shops are found right next toeach other. Therefore a little shopping stroll can become an exhilaratingpleasure.
A visit of the Nikolaiviertel, a middle aged reconstructeddistrict, forms a special experience. Besides many museums well worth seeingand the Nikolai church, numerous small shops of souvenirs, applied arts andantiques can be discovered. You can perfectly walk through the little alleys ofthe district and find yourself transferred into a different era.
The popular shopping zone in Steglitz that consists of twoshopping malls, a shopping forum and the huge Galeria offers a diversifiedselection of shops. Besides the subsidiaries of the big shopping centers andwell known labels one can find numerous smaller boutiques which extend theample offer. Since one store is situated right beside the next one, Schlossstraßetruly invites to stroll from one display window to the other.
Exploring a foreign city – there is no better way for doingthis than by foot. You will not only get to know the sights and the (hi-)storybut also the lifestyle and the atmosphere as well which characterize manyspecial places. A wide offer of tourist guides would like to help you on yourway so that you won't get lost in the 900 km² large Berlin. The selectionof guided walks with topical emphasis regards all interests. Day Trips
Berlin offers a wide range of possibilities and activitiesfor sightseeing: historical buildings and modern architecture, a varioustheatre and opera scene and open air events just like the Love Parade, boulevardswith excellent shopping possibilities and green oasis with silent lakes.
Anyone wanting to see more might take a stop on the journeyto Berlin. Brandenburg offers a lot of places which are worth to visit.
In the south of Berlin lies Potsdam, the summer residenceof the Prussian kings. The palaces Sanssouci, Neues Palais, Charlottenhof andthe spacious parks with the pavilions charm with the feeling of ancient times.
The Potsdam city center with the picturesque HolländischesViertel (Dutch quarter) and the traditional Russian colony Alexandrowa call upthe past.
In the north of Berlin at the idyllic Ruppiner Land thebeautiful Schloss Rheinsberg invites you to concerts regularly taking place inromantic settings.
The imposing watergate Niederfinow still impresses everyvisitor caused by its technique and architecture dating from the 1920s.
The Spreewald may be called unique in Europe as it is acultivated water landscape with a widespread labyrinth of small rivers thatmeander. One shouldn't miss a boat trip on the water ways which is a quitefascinating experience in Brandenburg.
Since long Dresden has been called the Florence of theNorth due to its splendid baroque buildings. The magnificent buildings stillremind of the golden times of August the Strong. The Zwinger,one of the mostimportant baroque building of its time offers a wonderful painting collection,the Gemäldegalerie. The Frauenkirche, the largest protestant domebuilding, was destroyed in World war II and is now under restoration. A visitto the Semperoper promises real pleasure and enjoyment to all music lovers.
A consumption of another kind offers the Radeberger brewerywhich is more than 100 years old. You are invited to a very interesting guidedtour followed by a special beer tasting. The brewery process of one of theleading beers in Germany is presented in a sapid way.
The Radeberger brewery is located near Dresden, about 2 1/2hours car ride from Berlin.
Conclusion
Germany, Ger. Deutschland, officially Federal Republic ofGermany, republic (1995 est. pop. 81,338,000), 137,699 sq mi (356,733 sq km).Located in the center of Europe, it borders the Netherlands, Belgium,Luxembourg, and France on the west; Switzerland and Austria on the south; theCzech Republic and Poland on the east; Denmark on the north; and the Baltic Seaon the northeast. The official capital and largest city is Berlin, but manyadministrative functions are still carried on in Bonn, the former capital ofWest Germany.
Germany as a whole can be divided into three majorgeographic regions: the low-lying N German plain, the central German uplands,and, in the south, the ranges of the Central Alps and other uplands. Theclimate is temperate although there is considerable variation. Almost twothirds of the country's extensive forests are coniferous; among the broadleafs,beech predominates.
The importance of tourism for the economy and societycannot be questioned. No other single branch of the economy employs so manypeople, in both the main and the supporting services, as does the touristindustry, because tourism includes many auxilary services: travel, eating,sleeping, relaxation and enjoyment. Whilst it is true that in recent yearsexpenditure by German households has been restrained, recent surveys revealthey would still rather go on holiday than buy a new car. But this has notalways benefited the German tourist industry: arrivals and overnights havestagnated, albeit at a very high level, but there are at least more overseasguests coming to Germany.
Tourism is neither a one-way street, nor is it a monoculture:it is a colourful mosaic with a wide range of services on offer. If just onepart of the mosaic is missing, then all the others will suffer as a result.Travel agencies, transport, hotel and guest houses, cultural, sporting andhealth organisations, are the heart of the tourist economy, a heart which needsvessels to maintain its circulation. Transport officials, natural andenvironmental protection officers, enterprise and communications consultants,the preservation and protection of buildings and monuments, to name but a few,all must work harmoniusly together.
Tourism offers young people a wide range of opportunitiesin attractive professions, offering progress and encouraging enterprisethinking and independence.The Federal Economics Ministry is highly active inthe industry, not just for the industry itself, but also because tourismbenefits the economy and workforce as a whole. Travel promotes and formstolerant attitudes, and mutual understanding. For those who want to develop andexpand their business, the attractiveness of a particular area is as importantas anything else.
The tourist industry is proud of its contribution to wealthand job creation, promoting the service mentality with the motto, «thinkglobal, act global», and it is with good reason that former employees inthe tourist industry are so highly regarded in other sectors of the economy asflexible and willing to adapt to different kinds of work.
Literature
1. Rosenbaum R. Explaining Hitler:The Search for theOrigins of his Evil/R. Rosenbaum. — London etc.: Papermac, 1998.
2. Лебедев В.Б. Знакомьтесь: Германия! Пособие пострановедению: Учеб. пособие для вузов/ В.Б. Лебедев. — 2-е изд., стер. — М.:Высш. шк., 2006.
3. Тимошина Т.М. Экономическая история зарубежных стран: Учеб.пособие для вузов по экон. специальностям/Т.М. Тимошина; Под ред. М.Н.Чепурина; Моск. гос. ин-т междунар. отношений (ун-т) МИД РФ.- 3-е изд., стер. — М.: Юстицинформ, 2005.