Berlin, a city that until November 1989 was divided by the politics of the Cold War, encapsulates 20th century European history. But with a rich history dating back to 1247, and over 80 galleries, it is much more than just a symbol of the Iron Curtain.

Defying simple definition, Berlin is many things to many people. For some it is Europe's political powerhouse, for others a hedonistic party paradise. Epitome of Cold War division yet epicentre of unification, capital of Germany yet the least "German" of all German cities, Berlin is sophisticated yet down-to-earth, a city of colourful courtyards and grey high-rises, of Teutonic efficiency and wacky haphazardness, of rigidity and tolerance, home to artists, bohemians and tens of thousands of gays and lesbians, but also to politicians, bureaucrats and businessmen.

Berlin is a city of contrasts and contradictions, full of excitement and forever evolving. Perhaps the latter point is the most poignant. The old and new German capital is in a constant state of flux, always "becoming" something without having ever "been." This phenomenon has accelerated since the fall of the Wall and efforts are now concentrated upon turning Berlin into an international metropolis, the new 'capital of Europe.' For the past few decades, Berlin has been undergoing major rebuilding and planning efforts which are visible in the new cityscape around Potsdamer Platz and the eastern city centre. But there is also a rebuilding process taking place less visibly—in the hearts and minds of Berliners.

Willkommen in Berlin!