Editing Berlin (section)

== Geography ==

Berlin lies in northeastern Germany on the North European Plain. The Spree crosses the central city before joining the [[Havel]] in western Berlin. The Havel widens into a chain of lakes, while other lakes occupy parts of the southeastern city.

The terrain is generally low and was shaped by glacial erosion. Sandy soils cover much of the area. Extensive woodland remains within the city boundary, particularly in the outer western and southeastern districts.

Berlin is entirely enclosed by Brandenburg. [[Potsdam]] lies immediately southwest of the city. The built-up area extends beyond the state boundary into surrounding Brandenburg municipalities and forms the centre of the wider Berlin–Brandenburg metropolitan region.

The city is divided into twelve boroughs. Dense residential districts surround the central borough of Mitte. Farther from the centre, the boroughs contain former villages and large housing developments. Lakes and woodland separate several outer neighbourhoods.

Berlin has a temperate climate. Summers are generally warm, while winters are cold with periods of frost. Rainfall occurs throughout the year.