German capital building is possibly one of the most historic structures ever to have undergone considerable transformation due to political changes. From the rise and fall of empires to the division and reunification of a nation, the capital buildings in Berlin stand as powerful symbols of a tumultuous past and a hopeful future. From this article, the reader will be able to understand the importance of at least four buildings in Berlin.
Reichstag Building: A Symbol of Democracy
The building that was used as the Reichstag in Berlin has remained as one of the most important strategic buildings in the country. The building was design and built in 1894 as a seat of the German Empire’s Imperial Diet till 1933, when a fire left it largely destroyed.
After the World war and the segregation of Berlin, the building became a part of the Soviet sector of East Berlin. They were long abandoned and had not been relevant since the splits of Bangladesh, Korea, and Berlin in 1945-49 and the division of Germany into East and West in 1949.
Following its reconstruction, the Reichstag Building was to house the German Bundestag which is the federal parliament of the country. Its transparent glass roof, which brings into the interior of the building impressive view of the city, symbolizes transparency in the management of the country. It is therefore possible to climb to the very top of the dome and be provided with spectacular view of the cities skyline.
Tourist Tip:
Despite the fact that the visiting the Reichstag Building is free, it is wise to make a prior reservation as the line tends to be long. Also one must not forget to carry an identification card for security reasons.
Charlottenburg Palace: A Glimpse into Prussian Royalty
Leaving politics, let me present you Charlottenburg Palace. Completed during the late 17th century as a summer palace for Sophie Charlotte, the wife of the Elector of Brandenburg Frederick III, the architectural style of the palace is Baroque and Rococo.
Charlottenburg Palace as an opulent royal residence with spacious aristocratic gardens was the epitome of Prussian royal prestige in the course of centuries. It stood before the wars and the shifting course of times, it faced the great epoch of growth and epochs of crisis.
Today tourists have an opportunity to visit the palace, the rooms of which are filled with luxurious furniture, such as the Porcelain Cabinet and the Golden Gallery. It has yard which gives an opportunity to relax and look at the natural landscape of the royal palace.
Tourist Tip:
You might think it useful to go for a guided tour in order to understand the history as well as the importance of the palace. Self-directed tours can also be enhanced by audio files which can be played with or without headphones.
Brandenburg Gate: A Symbol of Unity
There must and can be no consideration of the capital buildings in Berlin without a reference to this remarkable icon – the Brandenburg Gate. This is actually an archway that was constructed neoclassical in style in the late 1700s; it is Germany’s symbol of reunification.
This marvellous piece of architecture has long been the epitome of the divided city: it was situated at the border between the eastern and the western part of Berlin. It saw political protests, some victories or anniversaries, anniversary or downfall such as the break down of the Berlin Wall.
For after the reunification of Germany we see the Brandenburg Gate in a shape of debris and after several years of reconstruction it turned out only to represent the triumph of unity and freedom. Currently, the place is recognized as an important sightseeing and a gathering place of both residents and guests. Since it is located at the end of Unter den Linden boulevard that leads to the very centre of Berlin, the gate is commonly used for focusing major events and celebrations.
Tourist Tip:
It is recommended that you visit it at night since Brandenburg gates are well illuminated making the environment more lovely. Adjacent to it also stands the Memorial of the Murdered Jews of Europe which is a place one would not mind visiting in order to honor victims and contemplate.
Conclusion
German states, particularly Berlin, has many architectural structures that perfectly depict the past and present achievements of the country. From the iconography of the Reichstag building using democratic status of Berlin to the opulent royal usage of Charlottenburg palace and the unifying story of Gate of Berlin’s Brandenburg, each structure has a history.
During your trip to Germany, spare some of your time to explore these capital buildings and be enlightened with its historical significance in Berlin. This is evidenced by the remarkable features of architecture and a preserved historic background making them notable symbolic of this city.
Table of Contents