As early as the 19th century, “the lime trees” were Berlin's most splendid promenade and parade street in the center of the city. Today the avenue has lost none of its old charm. Not only are the main building of Berlin's Humboldt University, the German Historical Museum, the Berlin Cathedral and the State Opera located on the street, it also leads across Berlin's Museum Island. The most important exhibition centers in the country are located there. Also on Museum Island, opposite the Altes Museum, was the Berlin City Palace, torn down in GDR times and replaced by the Palace of the Republic, it is soon to be rebuilt - also as a museum.