Berlin wall as Cold War symbol The Berlin Wall serves as a powerful symbol of the Cold War, occupying a prominent position on this schematic map of Berlin. This physical barrier marked the ‘final’ division between the western and eastern sectors of the city for its residents. In August 1961, this 'wall of shame,' (as it came to be known on the western side), was erected with remarkable speed, and was officially termed an 'anti-fascist protective wall' by the East German regime.
