My favourite place: Berlin
In the May 2016 issue of BBC History Magazine, Frank McDonough selects Berlin as his favourite place. History Extra caught up with him to find out more...
Q: When did you last travel to Berlin and why were you there?
A: I travelled to Berlin for a study visit with my students in 2014.
Q: Why do you love the location?
A: I love Berlin as it resonates with my own research interests on Germany, particularly the era of the Third Reich. I love the fact that is a very quirky place due to Nazi era and the Cold War. This means that it has no real centre, and so you can explore new areas and go to different suburbs.
Q: Which historical sight would you recommend and why?
A: The Brandeburg Gate: although an obvious place it is a must visit and it is within walking distance of other important historical sites.
Q: During what period of history would you have most wanted to visit Berlin and why?
A: I would have liked to have visited Germany during the Weimar era, the period before the Nazis came to power and when it was the centre of cabaret culture.
Q: Where else in the world would you most like to visit and why?
A: I would like to visit the Great Wall of China, mainly because I’ve never been and would like to see this wonder of the world.
Frank McDonough is professor of international history at Liverpool John Moores University.
You can read more about Frank's experiences in Berlin in the May issue of BBC History Magazine.
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