Reichstagsgebäude

The Reichstag is the home of Germany’s federal parliament, the Bundestag. Completed in 1894 for the newly unified German Empire, it was designed by architect Paul Wallot to evoke a Renaissance palace. A bold inscription on the front still reads “Dem Deutschen Volke” — “For the German people,” a dedication that has outlasted turbulent decades.

Fire, propaganda, and war

In 1933, a fire devastated the building. Adolf Hitler used the blaze to accuse Communists of plotting a revolution, tightening his grip on power. Many historians point to strong evidence that the regime itself engineered the crisis. Later, the Reichstag became a symbol of the Soviet advance in 1945: a famous photograph shows a Red Army soldier raising the Soviet flag atop the roof. Inside, sections of wartime graffiti left by Soviet soldiers remain visible, preserved on purpose as a stark reminder of the conflict — a rare choice for a national parliament.

Reunification and reinvention

After decades of division, German reunification was proclaimed here at midnight on 2 October 1990. The building stepped into global art history in 1995 when artist Christo wrapped the entire structure in shimmering silver fabric for two weeks, transforming the cityscape and drawing worldwide attention.

A modern dome above historic walls

Extensive restoration culminated in 1999 with the addition of a striking glass dome by British architect Norman Foster. The dome sits above the debating chamber, bringing light into the heart of the parliament and offering sweeping city views. Inside, a gently sloping helical ramp spirals upward to a lookout point with a full 360-degree panorama.

Planning a visit

Entry to the Reichstag and even public access to parliamentary debates are possible with advance registration via the official website. Bookings for the building itself may fill weeks or months ahead. Visiting the glass dome is usually easier: reserve online or at the service point across Scheidemannstraße, where same-day or next-day slots are often available outside peak season. A passport or photo ID is required for booking, and a passport is needed on the day of the visit. Expect crowds at this popular Berlin landmark.