Reichstag

The Reichstag building on the Spreebogen combines Paul Wallot's Wilhelmine Neo-Renaissance facade, completed in 1894, with Norman Foster's glass cupola — added after reunification as a deliberate symbol of democratic transparency. The building has absorbed almost every rupture in German history: the Reichstag fire of 27 February 1933 gave the Nazis their pretext to dismantle the Weimar democracy; Soviet soldiers raised the red flag on its roof in May 1945; and in 1995 Christo wrapped it entirely in silver fabric before its restoration as the seat of the Bundestag in 1999. The walkable glass dome features a spiraling ramp that looks directly down into the parliamentary chamber — a pointed architectural statement about citizens and their government. Entry is free but requires advance registration; the rooftop terrace offers a sweeping panorama over Berlin's government quarter.

Seat of the German Bundestag. Norman Foster's walkable glass dome above the plenary chamber blends Wilhelmine architecture with high-tech transparency.