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21 August 2019
We took a delightful train ride from Alexanderplatz to the west of Berlin to Schloss Charlottenburg. After scouring the map, we chose the most direct train route, the U2. It was a 15 minute walk from Sophie-Charlotte-Platz station along the tree lined SchlossStrasse.
We joined the tour inside the magnificent baroque and rococo styled palace which was built at the end of the 17th century and expanded during the 18th century, creating one of the largest palaces in the world.
Built for Frederick I, it was fashioned after architectural developments in Italy and France, particularly the Palace of Versailles. The palace was named after Frederick’s wife Charlotte who died in 1705, prior to its completion.
During the 18th century various features were added by Frederick’s successors Frederick William I, Frederick II (Frederick the Great), Frederick William II and Frederick William III.
In 1804 Napoleon marched into Berlin and settled in the palace, which became his headquarters.
The last emperors to live in the castle were Frederick William IV between 1840 and 1861. and Frederick III who reigned for just 99 days in 1888.
The palace was lavishly redecorated, following damage it suffered during World War II.
The gardens are beautiful, running along the Spree River, a combination of formal baroque style and a lake and informal area.
Of course, for full history and description of Schloss Charlottenburg head over to Wikipedia
