The "Central Park" of Berlin, it is the second largest park in Germany, after Munich's Englischer Garten. This orderly, pleasant swatch of green right at the heart of the city is ideal for strolls or picnics between visits to some of the city's more famous, contemporary architectural landmarks. Originally a hunting ground for royalty, made into a park in the 19th century, neglected under Hitler, and then almost entirely felled for firewood after the war, this park has been a profound witness to Berlin's many manifestations. It is chock full of monuments to victims of Germany's wars, and can make for a solemn, reflective meditation on Western Europe's sins. Also an infamous cruising spot.