Zola East Side Gallery is an iconic outdoor art gallery located in the heart of Berlin. It is the largest open-air gallery in the world, with over 105 murals from some of the most celebrated international street artists. Located on the east side of the Berlin Wall, the gallery has become a symbol of freedom and a celebration of art, culture, and creativity.
History of Zola East Side Gallery
The Zola East Side Gallery was established in 1990, shortly after the fall of the Berlin Wall. It was created by a group of local artists and activists, and the first mural was painted in August of that year. Since then, the gallery has become a popular tourist attraction, drawing over two million visitors every year.
The Murals of Zola East Side Gallery
The Zola East Side Gallery features a wide range of murals, all of which are united by a common theme: freedom. Many of the murals depict the struggles and triumphs of the German people during the Cold War. Other murals focus on more contemporary issues, such as gender equality, the refugee crisis, and climate change.
Notable Murals
One of the most iconic murals at the Zola East Side Gallery is the “Bruderkuss” (Brotherly Kiss) by Russian artist Dmitri Vrubel. The mural depicts Soviet leader Leonid Brezhnev and East German leader Erich Honecker locked in an embrace. Another notable mural is “Berliner Mauer” (Berlin Wall) by French artist Thierry Noir. The mural is a colorful tribute to the city of Berlin and the freedom it represents.
Notable Events
The Zola East Side Gallery has hosted several notable events over the years, including a concert by British rock band U2 in 1997. The band performed several of their most popular songs, including “Beautiful Day” and “Where the Streets Have No Name”. The concert was attended by over 100,000 people, and it was broadcast to millions more around the world.
Visiting the Zola East Side Gallery
The Zola East Side Gallery is open to the public and can be visited any day of the week. Admission is free, and the gallery is easily accessible by public transportation. Visitors can take a guided tour of the murals or explore the gallery on their own. There is also a small gift shop located onsite, where visitors can purchase souvenirs and artworks.
Tips for Visiting
- Be respectful of the art and the artists.
- Bring a camera to capture the murals.
- Wear comfortable shoes as the gallery is quite large.
- Bring water and snacks, as there are no food or drink vendors onsite.
The Zola East Side Gallery is a unique and inspiring destination for art lovers and those looking for a glimpse of Berlin’s past. It is a must-see for anyone visiting the city and a testament to the power of art and freedom.