Berlin is a biggie, attracting top talent from around the planet to this reunified German capital September 25. The run starts and finishes next to the Brandenberg Gate. The course is comparatively benign, and eminently historic -- passing by places such as the Reichstag and Berliner Dom. Like Chicago, the flat German topography spawns some spectacular times. Weather permitting 2011 should be no different. Given the one-time division of Germany, Berlin's marathon takes on special significance.

Here is an image of the Brandenburg Gate, the only gate still standing in the city, dates to 1791. A walking tour of Berlin, Germany and Sachsenhausen Concentration Camp is a must for visitors.