>I'm german and never noticed us having cultural divides like that. I'm specifically talking about the first unified Germany 1871, not 1990.

Ever been to Bavaria? Tried to have a long talk with an Ostfriese? Or what about religion, even in 21st century there are differences between catholic and protestant regions (Italy still catholic). Perhaps you dont see this bc you are German and are used to it, they are more visible for non-Germans