[Boxhagener Platz](https://tidbit.guide/t/Boxhagener%20Platz)
Boxhagener Platz, or "Boxi" to the locals, is the beating heart of Friedrichshain. Once a simple working-class square, it has transformed into a hipster haven. Historically, it was a place of political gatherings and workers' protests. Today, you can find a bustling flea market every Sunday, where you might score anything from vintage vinyl to quirky antiques.
[Görlitzer Park](https://tidbit.guide/t/Görlitzer%20Park)
Görlitzer Park, originally a railway station, is now a green oasis with a bit of an edgy reputation. It was converted into a park in the 1980s after the station's destruction in WWII. Don't let its rough edges fool you; it's a favorite spot for picnics, and you'll often find impromptu concerts and art installations.
[Mariannenplatz](https://tidbit.guide/t/Mariannenplatz)
Mariannenplatz is steeped in history and culture. Named after Princess Marianne of Prussia, the square is home to the Bethanien arts center, formerly a hospital. During the 1970s, it was a hotbed for squatter movements and alternative lifestyles. Today, it hosts cultural events and is a testament to Berlin's vibrant counterculture.
[Kottbusser Tor](https://tidbit.guide/t/Kottbusser%20Tor)
Affectionately called "Kotti" by Berliners, this square in Kreuzberg is a melting pot of cultures. Initially a gate in the old Berlin Customs Wall, it has evolved into a lively neighborhood known for its multicultural vibe. Fun fact: it's a major hub for public transport, so you can easily hop on a U-Bahn or bus to explore more of Berlin.
[Oranienplatz](https://tidbit.guide/t/Oranienplatz)
Oranienplatz is named after the House of Orange-Nassau and has been a focal point for protests and social movements. In the 1980s, it was a center for the squatter movement, and more recently, it became known for the refugee protests in 2012-2014. It's a square that wears its history on its sleeve, with murals and plaques commemorating its storied past.
[Volkspark Friedrichshain](https://tidbit.guide/t/Volkspark%20Friedrichshain)
Volkspark Friedrichshain is Berlin's oldest public park, designed in the mid-19th century. It's a local favorite for joggers, picnickers, and anyone looking to escape the urban hustle. The park features a fairy-tale fountain, Märchenbrunnen, which showcases statues of characters from the Brothers Grimm stories. It's a whimsical touch in an otherwise serene setting.
[Warschauer Straße](https://tidbit.guide/t/Warschauer%20Straße)
While not a square, Warschauer Straße is a bustling street that's integral to Friedrichshain's identity. It's a gateway to the East Side Gallery, the longest remaining section of the Berlin Wall. The street has seen a renaissance, transforming from a gritty industrial area to a nightlife hotspot, complete with clubs, bars, and street art.
These squares and spaces in Friedrichshain-Kreuzberg aren't just landmarks; they're living, breathing entities that tell the story of Berlin's ever-evolving landscape. Whether you're a history buff or just love a good flea market, there's something here for everyone.