Top Historic Sights in Berlin, Germany

Explore the historic highlights of Berlin

Berlin, the capital of Germany, is a city steeped in history and renowned for its iconic sights. From its days as the capital of the Prussian Empire to its division during the Cold War, Berlin's past has shaped its present. Key historic landmarks include the Brandenburg Gate, symbolizing unity, and the Charlottenburg Palace, showcasing Prussian grandeur. The remnants of the Berlin Wall, such as Checkpoint Charlie, serve as poignant reminders of the city's divided past.

Since reunification, Berlin has become a vibrant center for arts and culture. Museum Island houses world-class museums like the Pergamon Museum and the Altes Museum. The Reichstag, with its modern glass dome, offers panoramic views. Berlin's contemporary identity is reflected in its neighborhoods and iconic landmarks, such as the East Side Gallery, covered in colorful murals. The city's music and nightlife scene, along with its welcoming atmosphere, make it a magnet for artists and creatives.

In summary, Berlin's historic significance, modern energy, and cultural diversity make it a captivating destination blending history, art, and vibrant urban life.

Brandenburg Gate

Berlin, Germany
1788-1791

Berlin Cathedral

Berlin, Germany
1894-1905

Altes Museum

Berlin, Germany
1823-1830

Neues Museum

Berlin, Germany
1855

Reichstag Building

Berlin, Germany
1884-1894

Alte Nationalgalerie

Berlin, Germany
1861

Pergamon Museum

Berlin, Germany
1910

DDR Museum

Berlin, Germany
2006

Holocaust Memorial

Berlin, Germany
2003

St. Mary's Church

Berlin, Germany
13th century

Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church

Berlin, Germany
1891

Französischer Dom

Berlin, Germany
1701-1705

Deutscher Dom

Berlin, Germany
1702

Checkpoint Charlie

Berlin, Germany
1961

Bode Museum

Berlin, Germany
1897

St. Nicholas' Church

Berlin, Germany
1220-1230

Charlottenburg Palace

Berlin, Germany
1695-1713

Topography of Terror

Berlin, Germany
2010

Jewish Museum

Berlin, Germany
2001

St. Hedwig's Cathedral

Berlin, Germany
1773

Berlin Wall

Berlin, Germany
1961

Spandau Citadel

Berlin, Germany
1557-1594

Franziskaner-Klosterkirche Ruins

Berlin, Germany
1250

Treptow Soviet Memorial

Berlin, Germany
1946-1948

Märkisches Museum

Berlin, Germany
1901-1908

Bellevue Palace

Berlin, Germany
1786

Köpenick Palace

Berlin, Germany
1677

Tempelhof Airport

Berlin, Germany
1923

Hufeisensiedlung

Berlin, Germany
1925-1933

Schönhausen Palace

Berlin, Germany
1664

Siemensstadt Housing Estate

Berlin, Germany
1929-1931

Featured Historic Landmarks, Sites & Buildings

Historic Site of the week

Jan Hus Memorial

The Jan Hus Memorial stands at one end of Old Town Square. The huge monument depicts victorious Hussite warriors and Protestants who were forced into exile 200 years after Hus, and a young mother who symbolises national rebirth. The monument was so large that the sculptor designed and built his own villa and studio where the work could be carried out. It was unveiled in 1915 to commemorate the 500th anniversary of Jan Hus' martyrdom. The memorial was designed by Ladislav Šaloun and paid for solely by public donations.

Born in 1369, Hus became an influential religious thinker, philosopher, and reformer in Prague. He was a key predecessor to the Protestant movement of the sixteenth century. In his works he criticized religious moral decay of the Catholic Church. Accordingly, the Czech patriot Hus believed that mass should be given in the vernacular, or local language, rather than in Latin. He was inspired by the teachings of John Wycliffe.