Many Berliners believe that tampering with the wall, which is protected as a historical monument, shows how the city's identity is shifting amid development and commercialization.

WSJ: In Berlin, Wall Divides Developers, Protesters

"I wish to emphasize that, as a Berlin-based company, we are just as interested in the preservation of the East Side Gallery as a historical monument as are Berliners and people in the entire world, " he said.

WSJ: In Berlin, Wall Divides Developers, Protesters

Last November, I was proud to establish the Fort Monroe National Monument, forever enshrining a site of profound historical and cultural significance.

WHITEHOUSE: Presidential Proclamation -- National Park Week, 2012

The self-pic you know, the type of photo where you outstretch your arm in front of you and take a picture of your noggin (or several noggins) obfuscating some historical monument has become so ubiquitous and culturally acceptable that technology has slowly but surely bowed down to the fact that people really do like taking pictures of themselves.

WSJ: Digital Cameras: Say 'Cheese,' Pose and Share