One of the most interesting places in Berlin offers not only the sack of reflections on the history of present nation, but also the magnificent views from the new impressive glass dome on the roof.
inside of the Reichstag's dome
During the first years of its existence the parliament of German Empire held its meetings in the former porcelain manufacture in Leipzigerstrasse. The money obtain from French government after the war damages allowed to build the new representative edifice.
The construction works under control of Paul Wallot were started in 1884. The building has been officially opened by enthroned several days before, Kaiser Wilhelm II in the year 1893. The whole power was held at that time by the Emperor, the members of Parliament started to play more serious role at the time of Weimar Republic, and in 1920′s Reichstag became the centre of German law and legislation until the infamous fire set by Nazis on 27 February 1933. Several day later the Parliament gave the full power to Hitler.
The Second World War ends with symbolic photo of a Russian soldier setting the red flag atop of heavily damaged roof of Reichstag. After the wall separated East and West parts of Berlin the capital of West Germany was moved to Bonn, while the Reichstag building after heavy renovation finished in 1972, became the seat of Lower house of Bundestag, and a host of numerous rock concerts and other art happenings. The year 1989 started the process of return of governmental institutions to Berlin, which was declared the capital of reunited Germany.
The first meeting of the new parliament was held on 20 December 1990. During the last modernisation in the years 1995-99 the building received the modern dome which is today one of the biggest tourist attractions in Berlin.The spiral gallery leads to the top of the glass-and-metal cupola with magnificent views on the entire city.
As there are no reservations to the Dome it is advised to be prepared for queuing in the lines before entering, especially on holidays.
The luxury Restaurant Käfer on the Reichstag’s roof offers an excellent view of developing city.
The special area inside of the building – a visitors gallery above plenary chamber allows the visitors to witness the Parliament’s meetings , there are also some short lectures given there about the history and functions of German Government. The new audioguides in several languages are available to rent near the cupolas staircase.
Reichstag
Platz der Republik 1
phone: (030) 22 73 21 52
www.bundestag.de
The Dome opening hours:
8 am–midnight( last admission 22 pm)
[photo courtesy of tehzeta]
