Friedrichshagen, Berlin, Germany

Friedrichshagen is a small southeast suburb of Berlin.  I believe the population is somewhere around 18.000 people.  It's only about a 30 minute ride on the S-Bahn from the Hauptbahnhof.  

It borders Köpenick and Rahnsdorf.  To the north is part of the Berlin city forest and on the west is the Müggelsee, Berlin's biggest lake.  There's a spot on the water where you can enjoy the beach in the summer and ice skate during the winter.

Friedrichshagen was founded in 1753 by King Frederick II of Prussia.  Until 1920 it was an autonomous Prussian municipality when it was merged with Berlin.  From 1949 to 1990 it was part of East Berlin.  

During the 19th century it was a popular destination because it was peaceful and close to nature.  Eventually it became a colony of villas popular with poets and artists.

Bölcherstrasße is the main street with lots of shops and restaurants.  It's also home to my favourite spot in Berlin for Döner Kebab.

There are two things that always lets me know know when I'm in what used to be East Berlin.  

First are the trams.  For some reason, back when the city was divided, West Berlin didn't have trams and they still don't.  

Second, are the beloved Ampelmännchen.