From the Abenaki to the logging industry, Maine has tons of cool history. But, did you know you there’s some pretty cool European history to experience too? Located in the heart of Portland’s Old Port, you’ll find one of the most unexpected pieces of world history!
First, a little explanation! The Berlin Wall existed as separation between East Germany and West Germany. During the start of the Cold War, East Germans used an area in West Berlin to flee to the West, which was democratic. To combat this, the authorities in East Germany built a wall completely circling West Berlin. This wall was built in the middle of the night on August 13th, 1961. On November 9th, 1989, the wall was finally removed allowing for free access between the two parts of Germany.
The Old Port is home to some of Maine’s most notable tourist-frequented restaurants and bars, but there’s a fun secret!
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Head to Long Wharf, just across Commercial Street…
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Bypass the posters advertising boat rides (but go back and do them later!)
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And you’ll find yourself walking down what appears to be any section of Portland’s working waterfront.
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Just across the way is Portland Lobster Company, so in a way our destination is hidden in plain site!
Michelle / Only in Maine
First, you’ll come to what remains of Portland’s old Love Locks fence, a portion of which was saved while the rest was deemed a safety hazard and removed.
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It’s fun to look through the declarations of love on these tiny locks!
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But what we’re really here for is the Berlin Wall!
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Inexplicably located here on Long Wharf are three sections of the demolished wall.
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Each has a painted message of peace and reminder of what the wall meant.
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Though, it may not have included this graffiti when it was part of the larger wall.
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But the wall is most certainly authentic.
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Only the real history buffs will believe this warrants a trip of its own, but it’s a cool piece of history nonetheless.
Michelle / Only in Maine Take a look, touch the stone and then…get yourself a lobster roll at Portland Lobster Company!
And, as always, “may you have fair winds and following seas!”
Michelle / Only in Maine
For more history, check out the sinister story of a popular Maine island by clicking here.
Michelle / Only in Maine
Kyle Cheung / Flickr
Take a look, touch the stone and then…get yourself a lobster roll at Portland Lobster Company!
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