The history of the Reichstag Building is a direct reflection of Germany's own turbulent past, beginning with its construction between 1884 and 1894. Designed by architect Paul Wallot to house the Imperial Diet of the German Empire, the building was a powerful symbol of a newly unified nation. Its story charts a course through monarchy, revolution, fascist dictatorship, devastating war, national division, and finally, reunification.
Imperial Beginnings and the Weimar Republic
The original Neo-Renaissance building was a grand statement, though not universally loved; Kaiser Wilhelm II famously derided it. A significant moment came in 1916 with the addition of the inscription "Dem Deutschen Volke" (To the German People) on its facade. Just two years later, on November 9, 1918, politician Philipp Scheidemann proclaimed the German Republic from one of its balconies, marking the end of the monarchy and the beginning of the Weimar Republic.
The Reichstag Fire and Nazi Era
The building's darkest chapter began on the night of February 27, 1933, when a fire tore through the structure, destroying the plenary chamber. The newly appointed Chancellor, Adolf Hitler, and the Nazi Party blamed communists for the fire. This event was used as a pretext to pass the Reichstag Fire Decree, an emergency act that suspended basic civil rights and allowed for the mass arrest of political opponents, effectively paving the way for the Nazi dictatorship. The parliament moved to the nearby Kroll Opera House, and the Reichstag building was left as a scarred, disused shell.
Destruction in World War II and Cold War Division
The Reichstag suffered further severe damage from bombing during World War II. Due to its symbolic importance, it became a primary target for the Soviet Red Army during the Battle of Berlin in April 1945. The iconic photograph of two Soviet soldiers raising their flag atop the ruined building on April 30, 1945, symbolized the defeat of Nazi Germany.
After the war, the building stood in ruins within West Berlin, but just metres from the border with East Berlin. It was partially restored in the 1960s but could not be used as a seat of parliament due to Berlin's divided status. For decades, it hosted a historical exhibition, a silent monument to a divided nation.
Reunification and a New Beginning
The fall of the Berlin Wall in 1989 changed everything. The official German reunification ceremony was held at the Reichstag on October 3, 1990. Following a historic debate, the Bundestag voted in 1991 to move the seat of government back from Bonn to Berlin, with the Reichstag as its home.
The Foster Reconstruction
An ambitious reconstruction project led by British architect Sir Norman Foster began in 1995. Foster's design masterfully blended the historic shell with a modern interior. He peeled back layers of previous renovations to reveal historical marks, including Cyrillic graffiti from Soviet soldiers, which were preserved.
The most defining feature of the new design is the magnificent glass dome, built directly above the plenary chamber. This structure symbolizes the transparency of German democracy. The first session of the Bundestag in the newly renovated building was held on April 19, 1999.
Frequently asked questions
When was the Reichstag Building originally built?
The original Reichstag Building was constructed between 1884 and 1894. It was designed by the German architect Paul Wallot.
What happened at the Reichstag in 1933?
On February 27, 1933, the Reichstag Building was severely damaged by a fire. The Nazi party used the event to claim a communist plot existed, leading to an emergency decree that suspended civil liberties and helped consolidate Hitler's power.
Why is the Reichstag dome made of glass?
The glass dome, designed by Sir Norman Foster, is symbolic of political transparency, allowing the public to look down into the parliamentary chamber. It is also an eco-friendly feature, providing natural light and ventilation.
Experience this incredible monument to German history for yourself. We recommend you book tickets well in advance to secure your spot for a visit to the iconic dome.