Inside a restored C-Type
The original C-Type trains on the Berliner U-Bahn have either retired or been scrapped for parts. On my last day in Berlin I was in luck! I caught the unveiling of a newly refurbished C-Type recommission from the museum to serve on the U-55 shuttle line between Brandenburger Tor and Berlin Hauptbahnhof. The minister of transport was present to show off the historic train restored to its former glory complete with 1950’s posters, markings, and upholstery. Being able to see this historic train was a treat in itself, but being able to ride on it knowing it was fully restored and functional brought me joy on a whole new level.
Map with the former border on it
The maps inside the train were period maps from the 1950’s and 60’s showing the grenze (border) between East and West Berlin. It’s hard to believe that just 30 years ago this was the battlefront for ideologies, it’s even harder to believe that a unified nation is as strong as it is now. This train not only crosses the former border between East and West, it is also emblematic of the progress made since reunification in 1990.
