Reichstag Building

Reichstag building was completed in 1894, following German national unification and the formation of the German Reich in the 1871. During the course of the 20th century the Reichstag suffered damage and destruction. The 1933 fire completely destroyed the original plenary hall and, in 1954, the main dome had to be demolished.

Quick facts

• Name: Reichstag Building
• Location: Berlin, Germany
• Type of attraction: Architectural/Buiding
• Built: 1894
• Ticket price: Free

During the Cold War and until German reunification in 1989, the Reichstag housed a permanent exhibition called “Questions about German History,” but it was mainly used for ceremonial purposes. The official reunification ceremony took place in the Reichstag in 1990. It has been agreed that it will once again be the home of the German national parliament after another year of intensive deliberation.

The Reichstag ceased to be a focal point of German politics until after the country was reunified. Bonn is the seat of the Bundestag, the parliament of the Federal Republic of Germany. The Berlin rebuild goes ahead regardless. However, at first, the Emperor would have been content even without the iconic dome.

After Germany was reunited in 1991, the federal government made the decision to move the German Parliament to the capital city of Berlin. The Reichstag will undergo renovations for this purpose. A competition for building designs will be held. The goal is to keep the classic look while incorporating modern energy efficiency features. Sir Norman Foster wins the bid and decides to use a glass roof.

In 1995, just before Norman Foster’s restoration of the Reichstag began, artist Christo and his wife Jeanne-Claude wrapped the building in fabric. In 1999, Foster’s meticulous repair and renovation of the building is completed, and on April 19th, the new German government meets for the first time at the Reichstag.

The modern dome-or cupola-of Reichstag, with its massive central glass cylinder, is among the most impressive features, constructed visually and technologically to channel natural light into the plenary chamber.

Dome visits can be pre-booked online and it is a must when visiting Berlin as it gives you also very nice view of the surroundings.

This is one of the top attractions in Germany and one of the most photographed building.

Interesting facts about Reichstag Building

Here are some interesting facts about this historic landmark:

• The Reichstag building attracts about 3 million visitors per year. It is the second most visited landmark in Germany (after Cologne Cathedral).
• The Dome with its public access symbolizes that the people are above the government.
• The building was not in use from 1933 when it was set on fire until full refurbishment in 1999 when Parliament finally moved there.

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