The cornerstone of German political and architecture is the Reichstag Building, Germany, Berlin. The Bundeshaus is accommodating the German Bundestag and it symbolizes the German democracy. The external features of the Reichstag Building reflect the historical period in which the German Reich developed into a organized nation. It is time to consider the main features of this magnificent building.
Architectural Significance
Paul Wallot was the German architect for the Reichstag Building which was constructed in 1894. You can see that the building is erected in the neo-classic style with the aspects of the Renaissance, Gothic and Baroque styles. The grand walls of the building cover sculptures and ornamentations which are tastefully designed in a grand style.
Of course, today’s visitor to the Reichstag Building will not be able to escape mention of the famous glass dome. The concrete dome, sporting a glass cladding, was completed in 1990s during the structural revamp of the building engineered by British Architect Norman Foster. This has given the dome a meaning of transparency and people are able to have a round view of the city of Berlin.
Historical Significance
The Reichstags Building has been through a host of momentous occasions in its history. Sizable fire engulfed the building in 1933 and thisбыAccording to the time line of German history in the 20th century, truthful or not, the fire symbolized the opportunity for Adolf Hitler and the Nazi Party to seize power. If anything it was used after the second world war and became a divided structure during the cold war era, being right beside the Berlin Wall.
After the scenario of the German reunification and the direction of the Germany’s reunification policy, the reconstruction and repairing work of the Reichstag Building started in the 1990s. From the process, it intended to retain most of the facets historically important but also to add qualities, which the Bundestag requires for its works. The ultimate outcome is the unique combination of the history of the building and the opportunities for using the space now.
The Bundestag and Democracy
Since 1999, the Reichstag Building has housed the meeting chamber of the German Bundestag, thus returning it to the centre of German democracy. The Bundestag has a role of exercising the privileges of the citizens and making essential legislative choices. People can watch debates, sit through committee meetings and otherwise get a feel of the whole democratic process from the public galleries.
Strikingly, the Reichstag Building remains open to the public as many as five hundred and twenty-one days every year. It is still possible to view the building from inside – such as the roof terrace and the extraordinary glass dome – without paying a penny. This openness reflects the openness of the democractic system in Germany.
Sustainability of buildings and Energy Efficiency
Germany being an ecological country has integrated several environmental technologies in the Reichstag Building. For example, the glass dome on the structure ensures that it has solar panels as a source of power to the structure. The dome also features an innovative means of air intake into the parliamentary chamber thereby minimizing the need for air conditioning.
The Reichstag Building was an excellent example to show how historical buildings can be reconstructed ecologically and resource-saving.
Visiting the Reichstag Building
If you’re planning to visit the Reichstag Building, it’s essential to plan ahead. Due to its popularity, it’s best to book your visit in advance through the official Bundestag website. Be prepared to go through a security check upon arrival, and ensure you have a valid photo ID available.
During your visit, make sure to explore the rooftop terrace and the glass dome. The dome offers breathtaking panoramic views of Berlin, including famous landmarks such as the Brandenburg Gate and the Tiergarten. Audio guides are available in multiple languages, providing insights into the building’s history, architecture, and its significance in German democracy.
In conclusion, the Reichstag Building in Berlin is a symbol of Germany’s democratic values and historical resilience. Its architectural grandeur, historical significance, and commitment to sustainability make it a must-visit landmark for tourists and a source of pride for the German people. Discover the rich history and democratic spirit housed within the walls of the Reichstag Building and witness firsthand the power of transparency and inclusivity in a democratic society.
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