The bears of Berlin are not just the city’s heraldic animal; they are a beloved symbol woven into its identity and culture. Here’s the lowdown on these iconic creatures and their significance to the city: **Historical Context** The bear has been associated with Berlin since the Middle Ages. The first mention dates back to a seal from 1280. The exact origin of why the bear was chosen is somewhat shrouded in mystery, with theories ranging from the bear’s presence in the surrounding forests centuries ago to its phonetic resemblance to the city’s name. **The Berlin Bear in Symbols** You’ll see the bear featured prominently in the city’s coat of arms, a sleek black bear on a white shield, standing on its hind legs. This emblem is ubiquitous throughout Berlin, adorning flags, government buildings, and official documents. It’s a constant reminder of the city’s historic connection to this majestic animal. **Buddy Bears** A more modern, colorful, and cheerful incarnation of the Berlin bear can be found in the Buddy Bears, which first appeared in 2001. These life-sized, fiberglass bear sculptures are painted by artists from around the world, each representing a unique theme or the culture of a different country. The Buddy Bear project started as a local initiative to promote peace, tolerance, and understanding among nations and has since gained international popularity. These bear sculptures are displayed across Berlin and have been exhibited in cities worldwide. **Bear Pit** (Bärenzwinger) For decades, live bears were kept in the Bärenzwinger, a bear pit in Köllnischer Park. It was a tradition that dated back to the 1930s. However, reflecting changes in attitudes towards animal welfare, the last bears living there, Maxi and Schnute, passed away in 2015 and 2013, respectively, leading to the closure of the bear pit as a home for live animals. Since then, the space has been repurposed for cultural activities and exhibitions, marking the end of an era but also the beginning of a new chapter in Berlin’s relationship with its symbolic animal. **Berlin Bears in Sports** The Eisbären Berlin (Berlin Polar Bears) is the city’s professional ice hockey team, and Hertha BSC, the football club, has a bear in its logo. These sports teams carry the legacy and spirit of the Berlin bear into contemporary culture, symbolizing strength, agility, and perseverance. The bears of Berlin, whether historical emblems, vibrant art pieces, or mascots for sports teams, embody the city’s resilience, diversity, and commitment to cultural exchange. They’re a reminder of Berlin’s rich history, its challenges, and its aspirations, making the bear an endearing and enduring symbol for both Berliners and visitors alike.