Checkpoint Charley
A potent symbol of the Cold War, Checkpoint Charlie - at the intersection of Friedrichstrasse and Zimmerstrasse - was the main gateway for non-Germans between the two Berlins from 1961 to 1990. Shortly after the Wall was built, the world held its breath as US and Soviet tanks dramatically faced off across the border post in October 1961.

For nearly four decades, an American flag flew on top of a guardhouse, a jeep was stationed in front and a sign in English, Russian, French and German warned: 'You are now leaving the American sector'. This being the third Allied checkpoint, it was named 'Charlie' - the third letter (alpha, bravo, charlie...) in military lingo. In 2001, a replica guardhouse was returned to the site (the original is in the Allied Museum in Zehlendorf), as was a copy of the famous sign. Also here are huge photos of an American soldier looking east and a Russian soldier looking west. All around here a new office district, with buildings designed by Philip Johnson and other international architects, has sprouted.


(full image)

Checkpoint Charley Replica Guardhouse - Installed in 2001


(full image)

Checkpoint Charley Guardhouse


(full image)

Checkpoint Charley Group Photo


(full image)

Checkpoint Charley Group Photo


(full image)

Checkpoint Charley Group Photo, with Chris, can see American soldier photo in background


(full image)

Checkpoint Charley Information Sign


(full image)

Restored Sign