You may have been to Berlin, Germany and found yourself in front of a massive, imposing monument overlooking the city. None other than the Berlin Victory Column, this magnificent structure is a testament to the city’s wealth of history and a highly populace landmark that both the city’s residents and tourist take pleasure in. In this article, we will go deeper and analyze the history, design, meaning, of this iconic monument.

Berlin Victory Column: The History

Erected to commemorate Prussia’s 19th century wars against Denmark, Austria and France, the Berlin Victory Column, whose German name is Siegessäule, was also erected to honor Prussia’s military victories. King Wilhelm I of Prussia commissioned the monument and Heinrich Strack was the architect. Inaugurated September 2, 1873, it has since become one of Berlin’s most familiar landmarks.

The Design and Architecture

About 67 meters (220 feet) tall, the Berlin Victory Column is at a majestic height, and sits on a large roundabout called the Großer Stern. Red granite is the monument’s primary material and it has at least one or two unusually distinctive features which uniquely sets it apart from other monuments.

In the base of the column there is a circular platform with four large statues of the victorious Prussian campaigns. The statues are bronze statues of different allegorical figurines symbolizing peace, victory, war, freedom. Each of the symbols on each figure derives its meaning from its corresponding theme.

Visitors arriv to the top through a spiraling stairway fashioned from 285 steps ending with a gilded statue, called Golden Victoria. This one is also of bronze and shows the winged goddess of victory holding a laurel in one hand and a Prussian eagle in the other hand. How magnificent the sight of the statue! Glowing in the sunlight you could see miles into the surrounding city.

Berlin Victory Column – Its Significance

The Berlin Victory Column stands as a major landmark and symbol of that German citizenship whose exploits the Prussians united to electrify the world and inform the future. It is german history, it’s a crucial period, and it is about the strength of the Prussian army, the military strength.

However, it has historical importance but is also symbolically important to the people of Berlin. It has since become a favorite haunt for locals and must see destination for visitors wanting to view the city skyline from a birds eye view.

In addition, the Berlin Victory Column has participated in several of the most important events from our history. During World War II the monument was broken up and stored in deference to protecting it from Allied bombing. Later reassembled, it was moved to its current site in 1945.

The 2008 visit also brought international attention when the Berlin Victory Column served as backdrop to speeches by former U.S. President Barack Obama and other world leaders on the occasion. An enduring symbol of strength, resilience and unity in the face of adversity, it remains today.

Seeing the Berlin Victory Column

If you come to Berlin, the Berlin Victory Column is a place you can’t really overlook. It is a relatively easy stroll from public transportation located in Tiergarten Park. Visiting is free to get into the base of the monument, and a small price is paid for the climb up to the top for the amazing views.

If you go take comfortable shoes because you will need to climb the top by walking in a spiral staircase. Just to be safe, make sure the monument has their opening hours due to things such as special events, or maintenance.

The surrounding Tiergarten Park also provides a beautiful green setting for a dive, or picnic for exerpt, surfer, after your visit to the column. So that you can enjoy some time in this beautiful green space and explore some other, close by attractions such as Brandenburg Gate and Reichstag building.

The Berlin Victory Column cannot be considered but as a symbol of victory, resilience and of national pride. It’s rich history, cutting edge design and cultural importance continues to entice visitors from all over the globe. If you’re looking to take in history, architecture, or simply marvel at some beautiful views this iconic monument in Berlin is a must when you’re there.