Berlin, the capital of Germany, offers a rich history and an abundance of remarkable architecture. The Reichstag Building is among its many famous landmarks. This magnificent structure is Germany’s democracy and a witness to the country’s troubled past. This blog post is about the fascinating things of the Reichstag building. Moreover, do you know how it was built, what type of architects have designed it, or its timeline of construction?
The Historical Significance of the Reichstag Building
The Reichstag building, which was completed in 1894 as the place to be housed the Imperial Diet (parliament) of the German Empire, was the literal first act of an architecture of destruction. It played a major role in the history of Germany for years, including triumphs as well as disasters.
It was overshadowed in the building’s later history by a devastating ‘mysterious’ fire that destroyed it in 1933. The Nazis took this opportunity to use the Reichstag Fire as a means for consolidating power and eventually leading to Hitler’s dictatorship.
During World War II, heavy bombing raids spared the building and it fell back into disrepair. Many years went by until reunification of Germany in 1990, when it became again a ruin. The Reichstag Building has since been restored in a magnificent manner and is now preserved as it was.
The Architecture of the Reichstag Building
The architectural style of the Reichstag Building combines several elements such as neo-Renaissance and neo-Baroque styles. The most conspicuous feature of the structure is the magnificent glass dome crowning it. Equally as impressive is the panoramic view offered through Sir Norman Foster’s dome.
The fact that a place that treasures its past and commits towards the future is at the very same time a modern city filled with immigrants who create their own progress and beauty, is captured perfectly by the combination of the historical and modern elements of the design. Decorative sculptures and intricate detailing abound on the exterior of the German grandeur.
Things to See and Do Inside the Reichstag Building
Under the category of places that you need to visit, we can consider visiting the Reichstag Building which will take you to some German history and marvel at the architectural brilliance of the building. Here are some points of a visit to the iconic landmark.
- Glass Dome: Led up the dome and see Berlin’s iconic skyline as far as the eye can reach. It also is an icon of transparency and openness in German politics.
- Plenary Chamber: See into the heart of German democracy in its Plenary Chamber where parliamentary debates and decisions are taken.
- The Roof Terrace: To have a walk on the building’s roof terrace where you get amazing view over the surrounding Tiergarten park and this bustling city.
So, Preparing a visit to the Reichstag Building.
Therefore, it is necessary to plan your trip carefully for visiting the Reichstag Building. Following are some tips to maximize from this experience:
- Due to its popularity a guided Tour of the Reichstag Building is highly recommended to be booked in advance to avoid disappointment.
- Security Precautions: It is the German Parliament home. Enter at your own risk as you are going to get ‘airport-style’ security checks your first time in.
- Reichstag Building Opening Hours: Open Hours from 8.00 AM till midnight. Look into their official website for clue or updates to anything going on there.
- Reichstag Building is an environmental pioneer. The solar panels, natural ventilation system and rain water utilization are featured on this house. Enjoy the process with its sustainable elements.
In Conclusion
Resilience is beautifully depicted in the Reichstag Building, in the use of democratic values, and in the idea of historical preservation. It reminds us of Germany’s mix of both bright and dark past. This iconic landmark is, no doubt, worth exploring, as it shall assist in providing a fuller understanding of Berlin’s history and beauty of its architecture.
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