Photo Essay: Echoes in theArchitecture

Photos and Story by Alejandro Creis Luján. Compiled by Jack Sloan and Catherine Ward.

I visited Berlin with my brother last June. The trip was a gift for my 18th birthday, and it also served as a well-needed rest after finishing high school. We took our flight from Barcelona, and when we arrived we were shocked by the amazing weather. People were strolling around the streets, enjoying the perfect-degree sun. It made for an extreme contrast to the business of Madrid. We went on many tours around the city, trying to soak up its history - both the good and the bad. After the city was reconstructed following WWII, it was divided into two sectors, east and west. What seemed like a casual walk on a sunny summer day would have been unimaginable 40 years ago. The border between both sides of the city was one of the most heavily militarised places in the world, just like the current border between both Koreas. I felt blessed to have the opportunity and freedom to do so, especially knowing the many people who had lost their lives trying to cross to the other side.

I thought Berlin would've been a high-octane city, but I was surprised to find a mindful culture. Everyone was doing something that everyone would agree is fulfilling: talking with their friends, having dinner on the grass or enjoying the sunset in the park. If I ever go back, I will make sure to soak up its peacefulness before heading to NYC.