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: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Thursday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Friday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Saturday: 9:00 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
Rated out of 5
Despite living and working in Berlin for nearly two years, I only just made it inside the Dom today, and it is stunning. It is incredibly well-maintained for a building over a century old.
At €15, I think this is better value than the TV Tower if a city view is your priority. Like the TV Tower, you get a full 360° view, but here it is an outdoor walk around the dome. Since most of the walkway has no safety mesh—just a high stone railing—you can get perfectly clear photos. In contrast, the TV Tower costs twice as much and the view is behind curved glass, which often creates reflections that make photography difficult. That said, the TV Tower still offers a different vibe and experience.
Be ready to climb 270 steps to reach the top. I heard they recently installed a lift, but be prepared for the stairs just in case. Also, backpacks aren't allowed on the dome walk, but there are plenty of lockers available once you check in. Make sure to take your camera and essentials out before storing your bag. I definitely recommend buying your ticket online to skip the queue. Your ticket also includes a free headset for the audio guide, which provides some interesting history during the tour. Just keep in mind that while the ticket is valid for a year, it is only for a one-time entry.
One final note about the ticket: the Berliner Dom requires approximately €15,000 per day (or over €5 million per year) for its maintenance and operations, and since they have to self-fund nearly 97% of their budget, the entry fee really does go toward keeping this landmark standing.
Piseth Mao - 2 months ago
Hands down the one of the most beautiful cathedrals I have ever seen. The scale of this place is just incredible, and the architecture is stunning from every angle. I spent so much time just staring at the dome. If you only have time for one landmark in Berlin, make it this one. Absolutely breathtaking!
Daniel Dzurík - 2 months ago
Worth the tour and ticket. Really nice architecture and the dome view is amazing. Also accessing the crypt is really interesting.
Make sure to make it part of your tour. I don’t normally pay for entrances but this one is worth it. You also get free audio tour.
Rahman Amin - 2 months ago
I must have photographed this building from every angle that winter, and it looked extraordinary every single time.
My favourite view was through the bare trees from across the street the branches framing the dome like the city itself was trying to present it to you slowly.
One of those buildings that earns every photo you take of it and you will take many.
Daren Ng - a month ago
The Berlin Cathedral is absolutely breathtaking both inside and out. The architecture is stunning, with its massive dome and intricate details reflecting Berlin’s rich history and grandeur.
One of the best experiences was seeing it from a boat tour along the Spree River. From the water, the cathedral looks even more majestic, and you also get incredible views of other iconic landmarks across the city. It gives a completely different perspective and makes the whole visit feel more special. A must-see spot in Berlin, especially if you combine it with a relaxing river cruise!
Razam Umarov - 3 months 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
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Photo Credit: Oneterry AKA Terry Kearney - cc license via Flickr -
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Photo Credit: @bastique - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: @bastique - cc license via Flickr
