Old city plan of Berlin, 1937

The 1937 Map of Berlin is a promotional map created for one of Berlin's prominent department store chains, Hertie, during a transformative period in Germany's history. This map offers a glimpse into Berlin's urban layout, highlighting the city’s infrastructure, shopping districts, and cultural landmarks as they appeared in the late 1930s.

The map centers on Berlin, showcasing its extensive street network, public transportation routes, and prominent neighborhoods. Key locations such as Unter den Linden, Alexanderplatz, Potsdamer Platz, and the Tiergarten are clearly marked, reflecting Berlin's status as a vibrant cultural and economic hub.

Produced as a marketing tool, the map was likely distributed to customers visiting Hertie department stores. It would have served both as a practical guide to the city and as an advertisement for Hertie's wide array of goods and services. The map may feature Hertie store locations prominently, accompanied by promotional text or graphics emphasizing the chain’s modernity and appeal.

Stylistically, the map blends functionality with visual flair. Streets, parks, and transportation lines are neatly organized, while landmarks are labeled to assist both residents and tourists in navigating the city. Decorative elements, such as an ornate title cartouche or advertisements, may enhance its appeal.

By 1937, Berlin was under the rule of the Nazi regime, which sought to project an image of progress and order. Maps like this, while commercial in nature, also reflected the city's infrastructure and modernization efforts during this period. Hertie, as one of Berlin’s leading department store chains, was a symbol of consumer culture and urban sophistication, though it would later face significant challenges during and after World War II.

This map is an important historical artifact, capturing a snapshot of Berlin's geography and daily life during a complex and politically charged era. It is valuable not only for its cartographic detail but also as a reflection of the social and economic dynamics of pre-war Germany. Collectors and historians appreciate such maps for their insights into urban development and commercial practices of the time.