Berlin Cathedral (Berliner Dom)
Located next to Lustgarten on Museum Island, The Berlin Cathedral (Berliner Dom in German) is one of the most prominent landmarks in Berlin. The largest church in the city, it is an important Protestant church serving a congregation from Berlin and the surrounding community.
History
It is advantageous to know some history behind the iconic buildings we visit. The Berlin Cathedral has roots dating back to the 15th century when it comprised several buildings that were part of the Berlin City Palace.
Early in the nineteenth century, architect Karl Friedrich Schinkel changed the church into a neoclassical building. When Wilhelm II became emperor in 1888, he stood firm on creating a new church to better reflect the prestige of the monarchy.
It took three attempts at designing the new church for architect Julius Karl Raschdorf to satisfy the vision of Wilhelm II. He was looking for something comparable in grandeur to St Pauls Cathedral in London and St Peter’s in Rome. Construction of the new church took place between 1893 and 1905.
The Berlin Cathedral, like many buildings in Berlin, suffered heavy damage in the Second World War. Being in East Berlin after the war, some restoration work did take place starting in 1975, but a full restoration did not begin until the fall of the Berlin Wall. The restoration was substantially completed 1993, but the mosaics in the dome where not finished until 2002.
Architecture and Features
The Berlin Cathedral is recognized by its massive Dome topped with a lantern and gold cross. The top of the Dome is nearly 100 metres in height. Four towers, one on each corner, are topped with smaller domes.
The architecture is influenced by neo-renaissance and baroque styles.
You will find magnificent baroque ceilings here and from there you enter the splendid nave. The arches and ceilings are beautifully wrought and medieval in their design. Four towers surround the nave, and it is filled with sculptures that are mostly stylized in forms of animals and birds.
The Hohenzollern Crypt, beneath the cathedral, is the most important dynastic burial site in Germany.
Inside the cathedral, a museum features drawings and models illustrating its history. Walk in models give a sense of the church’s interior.
The cathedral's massive pipe organ is over a hundred years old. It has an incredible 7269 pipes.
For a splendid view and up-close look at the exterior you can climb 270 stairs to reach the outer walkway of the Dome. For many, this is the highlight of their visit.
Visiting the Berlin Cathedral
Visitors can enjoy seeing the outside of the Berlin Cathedral at any time. You can see the interior without charge by joining in on any of the scheduled worship services.
Outside those times, there’s an entrance fee that includes a guided tour. These tours run every 20 minutes when worship service or other events are not occurring.
Another way to experience the interior of the cathedral is to attend one of over a hundred concerts and events that take place every year. You can visit the official website to learn more about these events and when they are taking place.
Facts For Your Visit
Berlin Cathedral Hours:
Opening hours may differ on holidays
- Monday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Thursday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Friday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Saturday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Sunday: 12:00 – 5:00 PM
Address: Am Lustgarten, 10178 Berlin, Germany
Phone: 030 20269136
Official Website: Berlin Cathedral
Berlin Cathedral Reviews
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The Berlin Cathedral (Berliner Dom) is a stunning architectural landmark and a significant cultural icon in Berlin, Germany. Here are some fascinating facts about the Berlin Cathedral:
History
The current Berlin Cathedral was built between 1894 and 1905, during the reign of German Emperor William II. However, the site has been home to various churches since the 15th century.
Architecture
The Berlin Cathedral is a magnificent example of Late Imperial German architecture, with a mix of Renaissance, Baroque, and Romanesque styles. The cathedral's dome, which rises to a height of 98 meters (322 feet), is one of its most distinctive features.
Interior
The cathedral's interior is adorned with intricate mosaics, ornate furnishings, and stunning stained-glass windows. Visitors can explore the cathedral's nave, chapels, and crypt, which contain the tombs of several Prussian monarchs.
Museum
The Berlin Cathedral also houses a museum that showcases the history of the cathedral and the Protestant Church in Berlin. Exhibits include artifacts, artworks, and interactive displays.
Events and Concerts
The Berlin Cathedral hosts various events and concerts throughout the year, including classical music performances, organ recitals, and choral concerts.
Visitor Information
- *Address:* Am Lustgarten, 10178 Berlin, Germany
- *Opening Hours:* April to September: 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM;
Ferri Saleh - a week ago
As magnificent as it can be! This cathedral is very different from other cathedral we have visited like the one in Cologne or Paris or London!
But no less beautiful and breathtaking. We arrived 10 minutes before the 12:00 to 12:30 service, we very much enjoyed the performance of the church organ, the organ operator was very good, the entire church was full with the beautiful music!
They don’t allow photography of video taping, so I can’t share any photos or video of the service!
It is very beautiful structure!
Steven Cheng - 3 months ago
Absolutely stunning building. Entrance was approx 10e per adult. You can climb to the top of the cathedral and overlook the city, although this does require you walking 200+ steep steps. The only letdown, which was the main reason I had visited was that the crypt is still closed (since 2020) for construction so if that's your only reason for visiting you should take note.
DJW - 2 months ago
A must visit. Inside the Cathedral is breathtaking. You can walk to the top and get some great pictures, be aware it’s 267 steps to get to there!
KL Williams - 2 weeks ago
Really cool building, they give a daily 20 min sermon, with music at noon. You can also take 227 stairs to the dome for an exterior 360 view of the city. There is a minimal cost, and no bags, they have lockers to put them in. They do not accept cash.
Lolly J - a month ago
Directions
How to get to Berlin Cathedral by U-Bahn, S-Bahn or MetroTram
Nearest U-Bahn, S-Bahn or MetroTram Line(s): S5, S7, S75, U2, U5, U8, M2, M4 ,M5, M6
Nearest U-Bahn, S-Bahn or MetroTram Station(s): Alexanderplatz
Map & Instant Route Finder
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Photo Credit: @bastique - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: @bastique - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: @bastique - cc license via Flickr
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