Matt Frei explores the unique city of Berlin an artificial metropolis - one that has not grown organically but always been contrived and redefined. Throughout its history it has been a laboratory of human behaviour thought and art. What began as a provincial town in the 17th century on a central European marsh became the very image of the messy development of human-kind during the 20th century. It is a place whose history we all feel caught up in in some way. Even if we have never visited we all feel touched by events that have taken place there because they are the universal stories of our time. Matt Frei is the BBC's Washington correspondent. Born in Germany he was sent by the BBC to Berlin in 1989 to report on the fall of the Wall. Now 20 years later he returns to take us on a fascinating journey through Berlin's history to reveal the true spirit of the city. Over three hour-long documentaries he explains this incredible city's ideas buildings and people. Dangerous Ideas explores how Berlin has been a crucible for radical thought - giving birth to communism and fascism theories of sex and sexuality eugenics and the atomic bomb - and how the price of such experimentation has been a history of bloodshed tyranny and violence. Ruined Visions tells a story of human creativity and destruction through the buildings of Berlin. From Friedrich the Second's imperial city and Bauhaus to the impact of Speers' Neo-classical Nazi dream and the Wall; what began as a 17th century provincial town became a city unique in the world. Ich Bin Ein Berliner reveals the spirit of Berlin's people characterised by their struggle for freedom. Having flocked to enjoy the city's religious toleration they took on the Nazis and risked their lives to cross the Wall - the iron rod of oppression and a thirst for liberty have shaped the Berliner.
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