August 2024

George Rosolymos · August 2024

August was a bit different this year due to the unusually high temperatures. To be honest, it was probably warmer than in July. With so many days with 30-plus degrees, for sure it was the warmest August since we moved into Berlin, 10 years ago. As I am writing these lines, the temperature is 33°C! This situation is quite strange for Germany because August used to be a smooth ( sometimes harsh) transition to the Autumn period. I remember one time it was the end of the month and all of a sudden one day it was snowing! There is a definition actually of this peculiar phenomenon. It is called climate crisis and unfortunately, it is happening!

We took advantage of this extended summer period and decided to visit some new places in Berlin that we never had the chance before. I think once in a while, it is very interesting, to become a tourist in your city and just wander around in neighborhoods that are not familiar. So, that is what we did! We immersed ourselves in everything Berlin offers. Here are some highlights.

Tempelhof Park is a great place for cycling. It is a unique urban green space that occupies the grounds of the former Tempelhof Airport. This expansive park, spanning over 600 acres, offers a blend of recreational activities and historical significance, where visitors can walk, cycle, or kite-fly on the old runways. The park's diverse landscape includes vast open fields, picnic areas, and community gardens, making it a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. The remnants of the airport's architectural features stand as a testament to its storied past, providing a striking backdrop for outdoor events and leisure activities. Tempelhof Park serves not only as a place for relaxation but also as a reminder of Berlin's rich history and transformation.
Dora’s brother came to visit us with his wife and their 4-year-old son for three days. We went to parks, restaurants, walks, and we had a great time. We visited also the Naturkudemuseum (Natural History Museum) and it was very fun. It is a modern museum that offers interactive displays and educational programs to promote conservation and biodiversity. It has various exhibits, including minerals, fossils, and preserved animals, helping visitors understand Earth's ecological history. The best part though, undoubtedly, is the dinosaur section. Every fan of Steven Spielberg’s famous 90’s movie, Jurassic Park, myself included, will feel a thrill as soon as they see T-REX and the other dinosaurs. (John Williams theme song plays in the background)
A big highlight of the month was the Berlin Atonal 2024 in Kraftwerk and Tresor. Berlin Atonal is an annual festival for sonic and visual art and promises to be a vibrant celebration of experimental music and contemporary art, continuing its legacy as a pivotal platform for innovative sound. It was a 3-day festival ( we went on the first day only) with a rich program that included live performances, audio-visual installations, and workshops that delve into the intersection of music and technology. As artists from around the globe converge in the city, Berlin Atonal aims to foster a dynamic exchange of ideas and creativity, further positioning Berlin as a hub for cutting-edge artistic expression.

The most interesting thing, aside from the actual project, was the venues where the festival took place. Kraftwerk, located in the heart of Berlin, is a unique cultural venue that exemplifies the city's dynamic blend of history and innovation. Originally a former power station, this industrial space has been transformed into a hub for contemporary art, music, and events, attracting diverse audiences from around the world. With its expansive layout and striking architecture, Kraftwerk provides an ideal setting for immersive experiences, and, oh boy, did we have one! The venue also serves as a testament to Berlin's vibrant creative scene, embodying the spirit of experimentation and collaboration that the city is known for.
Tresor Club in Berlin is a renowned techno venue that has played a pivotal role in the city's nightlife since its opening in 1991. A legendary techno club with numerous stories, that I never had the opportunity to visit although I always wanted to. Housed in a former power plant as well, the club is known for its industrial aesthetic, featuring raw concrete walls and a famous dungeon, that in the after hours becomes full of smoke and sweat, drawing a crowd that enjoys the unrelenting beats and dynamic energy unique to Berlin's techno scene. Tresor is famous for its commitment to underground music and diverse lineups, hosting both established DJs and emerging talent from around the world. The club's dedication to maintaining an inclusive and vibrant community ( No photos allowed) is reflected in its events, which often extend late into the early morning or the day after, the day after…!

What a great time to be alive…in Berlin!

july 2024