Old Map of Berlin, 1963: Berlin Wall Construction, Cold War, Brandenburg Gate

The "City Street Map of Berlin" from 1963 offers a captivating glimpse into a city divided by history. Created by the Presse- und Informationsamt des Landes Berlin, this map captures the essence of Berlin shortly after the construction of the Berlin Wall. The map vividly illustrates the stark division between East and West Berlin, marked by the infamous Wall that would become a symbol of the Cold War. This detailed tourist map not only serves as a navigational tool but also as a historical document, reflecting the geopolitical tensions of the era.

Berlin, a city rich in history and culture, is beautifully detailed in this map. Notable neighborhoods such as Charlottenburg, Kreuzberg, and Neukölln are highlighted, offering a window into the vibrant urban life that thrived despite the city's division. Each neighborhood carries its own unique character and history, from the elegant boulevards of Charlottenburg to the bohemian spirit of Kreuzberg. This map provides an intricate look at the urban landscape during a pivotal time in Berlin's history.

Landmarks like the Brandenburg Gate and Berlin Zoo are prominently featured, underscoring their significance as cultural and historical icons. The Brandenburg Gate, once a symbol of division, now stands as a testament to unity and resilience. The Berlin Zoo, a beloved institution, reflects the city's dedication to preserving nature amidst urbanization. These landmarks, along with others, make this map a fascinating exploration of Berlin's architectural and cultural heritage.

The map also showcases Berlin's natural beauty, with features like the Tiergarten and the serene waters of Tegeler See and Müggelsee. These green spaces provided much-needed respite for Berliners, offering a contrast to the bustling city life. The Tiergarten, in particular, serves as the city's green heart, a sprawling park that has witnessed centuries of history. This attention to natural landscapes adds depth to the map, illustrating the harmonious blend of urban and natural elements in Berlin.

Finally, the map's depiction of the Berlin Wall and surrounding defenses provides a poignant reminder of the city's divided past. The Wall, with its barbed wire and guard towers, is a chilling yet essential feature, representing the physical and ideological barriers of the time. This map not only guides the viewer through the streets of Berlin but also through the complex history that shaped its identity. As a piece of cartographic art, it captures the spirit of a city at the crossroads of history.

Streets and roads on this map

• Alexanderplatz
• Alt-Moabit
• Berliner Straße
• Bornholmer Straße
• Charlottenstraße
• Friedrichstraße
• Hermannstraße
• Karl-Marx-Allee
• Kurfürstendamm
• Leipziger Straße
• Müllerstraße
• Oranienstraße
• Potsdamer Straße
• Schönhauser Allee
• Sonnenallee
• Unter den Linden
• Warschauer Straße
• Wilhelmstraße

Notable Features & Landmarks

• Brandenburg Gate
• Berlin Zoo
• Charlottenburg
• Kreuzberg
• Neukölln
• Spandau
• Tegeler See
• Müggelsee
• Tiergarten
• The Berlin Wall and barbed wire fences
• Air corridors for access to West Berlin

Historical and design context

• Created in 1963 by the Presse- und Informationsamt des Landes Berlin.
• Illustrates the division between East and West Berlin shortly after the construction of the Berlin Wall.
• Highlights the geopolitical tensions of the Cold War era.
• Provides a detailed look at the urban layout and infrastructure of Berlin during this period.
• Emphasizes the ideological and physical division of Berlin.

Please double check the images to make sure that a specific town or place is shown on this map. You can also get in touch and ask us to check the map for you.

This map looks great at every size, but I always recommend going for a larger size if you have space. That way you can easily make out all of the details.

This map looks amazing at sizes all the way up to 70in (180cm). If you are looking for a larger map, please get in touch.

Please note: the labels on this map are hard to read if you order a map that is 20in (50cm) or smaller. The map is still very attractive, but if you would like to read the map easily, please buy a larger size.

The model in the listing images is holding the 18x24in (45x60cm) version of this map.

The fifth listing image shows an example of my map personalisation service.

If you’re looking for something slightly different, check out my collection of the best old maps to see if something else catches your eye.

Please contact me to check if a certain location, landmark or feature is shown on this map.

This would make a wonderful birthday, Christmas, Father's Day, work leaving, anniversary or housewarming gift for someone from the areas covered by this map.

This map is available as a giclée print on acid free archival matte paper, or you can buy it framed. The frame is a nice, simple black frame that suits most aesthetics. Please get in touch if you'd like a different frame colour or material. My frames are glazed with super-clear museum-grade acrylic (perspex/acrylite), which is significantly less reflective than glass, safer, and will always arrive in perfect condition.