Millions of visitors were demonstrated these past few days how much the city of Berlin has evolved during the 20 years since the fall of the Wall. And the world likes this new Berlin, as evident from a steady rise in visitor numbers – even in the midst of a global economic crisis. Twenty years after the reunification, Berlin has been reborn as a cosmopolitan metropolis, arousing curiosity and – something we are especially excited about – sympathy around the world, underscores Burkhard Kieker, CEO, BTM Berlin Tourismus Marketing.

Artists, designers, scientists, all kinds of creative minds and freethinkers appear to be magically drawn to the city of Berlin, resulting in an inspirational atmosphere which in turn attracts other people – a wonderful perpetual cycle.

Countless watched the live television broadcast of the ceremony at Berlin’s Brandenburg Gate on Monday evening, the moving images of which have made a lasting impression and aroused people’s desire for more. Berlin, a place of freedom, a focal point of European history and a city where people live alongside each other open mindedly and in tolerance, will likely continue to broaden its appeal in the years to come.