Checkpoint Charlie is the ultimate symbol of the Cold War and the division it established in Europe and the entire world for nearly four decades. It was part of the security system operating along the Berlin Wall. Today, this former border crossing is often the first spot that tourists visiting the wall head for. What they can see today is a replica of a watchtower from the early years of the Berlin Wall as well as the legendary signpost with the words: “You are now leaving the American sector.” The original construction of Checkpoint Charlie was demolished after the fall of the wall.