FILE - In this Nov. 24, 2017 file photo road blocks wrapped like Chistmas presents secure the way to the Christmas market in Bochum, Germany. German Christmas markets are still considered as potential targets for terror attacks. (AP Photo/Martin Meissner, file)
Republished November 27, 2017 - 2:00 AM
Original Publication Date November 27, 2017 - 1:21 AM
BERLIN - Traditional Christmas markets are opening across Germany amid heightened security, almost a year after a terror attack on a Berlin Christmas market killed 12.
German Interior Minister Thomas de Maiziere called on Germans Monday not to stay away out of fear, saying "Christmas markets are part of our life and culture."
But he also said that, "the terror threat is simply very high. Anytime. Anywhere."
The Berlin Christmas market, where a Tunisian attacker rammed a truck into visitors on Dec. 19, is to open Monday night with a candlelight ceremony.
Like most Christmas markets in Germany, it has been fortified with concrete blocks to stop possible car attacks and will have an increased presence of police officers. On the anniversary of the attack, the Berlin market will remain closed.
News from © The Associated Press, 2017