Local before arrival
In local slang, the figure of Victoria, the goddess of victory, is referred to as “Golden Else.” This good woman commemorates Prussian military victories, which is why she sits enthroned on a column decorated with canons of the defeated: Danish canons decorate the lowest part of the column, Austrian canons the middle, and French canons the top. Inside the column, steps lead up to a platform which features views of the zoo and the Brandenburg Gate. Parking is available all around—perfect for a Sunday jaunt with a bit of a workout.
