Unter den Linden (Under the Lime Trees Boulevard), Berlin

Unter den Linden, which means “Under the Lime Trees” in English, is a historic boulevard in the heart of Berlin, running east-west from the Berlin Palace to Paris Square and Brandenburg Gate.

The street was originally established as a bridle path, in the 16th century, by the Prince-Elector John George of Brandenburg to access his hunting grounds in the Tiergarten. It was later transformed into a tree-lined boulevard, in the 17th century, by Electress Dorothea Sophie, who initiated the development of a new suburb named in her honor.

Over time, Unter den Linden became a key part of Berlin’s urban expansion, connecting major streets, like Friedrich Street and Wilhelm Street, and serving as a central axis through the city. It was designed to resemble the grand boulevards of Paris and became known as Berlin's most renowned street by the 19th century.

During World War II, the lime trees along the boulevard were destroyed but then replanted in the 1950s.

Landmarks such as the Berlin Cathedral, Bebel Square, and Humboldt University line the Unter den Linden. Other notable sites include the Old Commandant's Office (at Number 1), the German Historical Museum (at Number 2), the Crown Prince's Palace (at Number 3), and the Berlin State Library (at Number 8). At the western end of the street are the Russian and Hungarian Embassies. Also, adorning the boulevard are a number of statues such as those of the Humboldt brothers, Alexander and Wilhelm, who were prominent scientists, and several Prussian generals.

You can also find multiple cafés, restaurants, upscale shops, and even luxury car dealerships like Bentley and Mercedes-Benz. Often teeming with tourists and students exploring the book stalls around Humboldt University and the State Library, Unter den Linden serves as the backdrop for many outdoor events.

Taking a leisurely stroll along this broad avenue is a fine pastime that offers a good feel of both German history and contemporary trends. So, lace up your walking shoes and immerse yourself!

Tip:
If you visit in September or October, be sure to catch the Festival of Lights, which transforms landmarks and buildings across the city through the use of illuminations, luministic projections, and 3D mapping.