Reichstag Building – Berlin : Interesting Facts, Information & Travel Guide

The Reichstag Building in Berlin, Germany, is a place of national and international significance. With its iconic dome and its turbulent history, this building is an iconic symbol of German history, and has been the site of pivotal events in the country’s history. It remains a major attraction to this day, and travelers from around the world come here to learn about German politics, soak in the grandeur of the building, and, of course, enjoy the gorgeous views from the top. This guide is designed to tell you everything you need to know about the Reichstag Building – history, interesting facts, and how to get there and enjoy the experience. Read on to discover what this cherished site has to offer.

Interesting Facts About Reichstag Building – Berlin

1. The building was designed by the architect Paul Wallot, who created a perfectly symmetrical building with a tall central dome.

2. The Reichstag has been refurbished several times due to its various uses throughout history.

3. On the first floor of the building, you can find the Kuppel restaurant – a restaurant famously once frequented by Adolf Hitler and his associates during Nazi rule.

4. After World War II, the building was damaged by bombing raids and extensively renovated in the 1990’s.

5. The building has a large central lobby, which is now used by the government as an open-air venue for receptions.

6. The German parliament known as the Bundestag meets at the Reichstag to discuss laws and other matters.

7. In 1995 the Bundestag decided to install a large dome on the Reichstag, which visitors can walk up to the top of.

8. In 2017 the Reichstag was outfitted with a large photographic installation called ‘Wiege der Demokratie’ which translates to ‘Cradle of Democracy’.

9. On its rooftop sits a glass dome which reflects the sky and was built to symbolize Germany’s openness.

10. The Reichstag underwent a major renovation in 1999, where it was equipped with many environmental friendly features such as the use of solar cells and an automated glass ventilation system.

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History & Information About Reichstag Building – Berlin

The Reichstag building in Berlin is a symbol of the German state and a landmark in the capital city. It was commissioned in 1884 by German Emperor William I, with the design by architect Paul Wallot. The building originally housed the Imperial Diet – the German parliament – and served as the meeting place for the Nazi Party in the 1930s.

After World War II, the building was damaged by bombing and it lay in disrepair until the reunification of Germany in 1990. A decision to refurbish and repurpose the building was made in 1992, with Norman Foster and Associates winning an international design competition to regenerate the Reichstag. After an extensive renovation process, it reopened in 1999 and now houses the modern German Bundestag, the present-day parliament for the reunited Germany.

The distinctive features of the revitalized Reichstag Building include its conical glass dome, which has become the iconic image of Germany’s capital city. From the dome, visitors are able to enjoy panoramic views of the city, while also being able to observe the workings of the legislature below. The Reichstag also contains a public visitors’ gallery, a debating chamber, committee rooms, and a restaurant.

The Reichstag is a popular destination for both tourists and German citizens, with around 7 million visitors each year. Their presence helps to emphasize the importance of democracy in Germany, and it serves as a reminder of the nation’s turbulent history in the twentieth century.

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Travel Guide For Visiting Reichstag Building – Berlin

General information

The Reichstag Building in Berlin is the home of the German Bundestag, the German legislative body, and a symbol of German democracy. Reopened in 1999 after undergoing renovations, the building includes a number of interesting features, including a giant glass dome and an open-air terrace with great views of the city. Visiting the Reichstag Building is a fantastic way to get a glimpse of Germany’s rich history and its bustling present.

Hours

The Reichstag Building is open 9 am to midnight every day (except Christmas Day).

Admission

Admission to the Reichstag Building is free of charge. There is a security check before entering, and visitors must register in advance to be able to enter.

Highlights

Visitors can explore the building’s grand interior on a self-guided tour. Highlights include the grand staircase and the impressive 360-degree view from the Dome, and visitors can access the open-air terrace for a great view of the city. There are also special exhibitions throughout the year, and German cultural events are often held in the building. Visitors are also invited to explore the roof garden.

Tours

Guided tours are available in several languages to help visitors explore the history and architecture of the Reichstag Building. Tours are available between 10 am and 7 pm and must also be booked in advance.

Further information

For more information about the Reichstag Building and to book tickets for tours, please visit the official website.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Reichstag Building – Berlin

Q: When was the Reichstag Building constructed?

A: The Reichstag Building was constructed between 1884 and 1894.

Q: Who designed the Reichstag Building?

A: The architect Paul Wallot designed the Reichstag Building.

Q: What is the significance of the Reichstag Building?

A: The Reichstag Building is significant because it was the meeting place of the German parliament from 1894 until 1933 when it was burned down. The building was rebuilt and restored after the reunification of Germany and is now used as the meeting place of the Bundestag, the German Federal Parliament.

Q: What is the current purpose of the Reichstag Building?

A: The Reichstag Building is now used as the meeting place of the Bundestag, the German Federal Parliament. It is also open to the public as a historical and architectural landmark, with panoramic views of the city from the iconic glass dome.

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