Spandau Citadel
Take a long journey back in history with a visit to the Spandau Citadel, one of the best preserved renaissance fortresses remaining in Europe.
The history of the Citadel goes back to at least 1197, the earliest mention of Spandau Castle at the junction of the Havel and Spree rivers. In the early 13th century the Julius Tower was added to help defend the castle. Between 1559 and 1594 the four-bastioned fortress was built around the tower to defend the city of Berlin.
Zitadelle Spandau, as it is called in German, has lived through a number of conflicts over the centuries. In 1675 it was besieged by the Swedes. In 1813, seven years after being surrendered to the French under Napoleon, it was taken back by Prussian and Russian fighters, but not without considerable damage that had to be restored. Although it was used as a defense at the end of the Second World War, it escaped bombing because Soviet forces negotiated its surrender.
Visiting the Citadel is an immersive experience. Many visitors enjoy an entire day exploring the historic site.
We suggest starting with the museum as it will give you a strong point of reference for understanding and exploring the rest of the property.
If you are able, be sure to climb the 153 steps to the top of the Julius Tower for spectacular views of the fort, the river, the countryside and the city beyond. This activity is included in your admission and available during all opening hours.
Another fascinating thing to see at Spandauer Zitadelle are the bat vaults. Over 10,000 bats winter in the brick walls of the citadel every year making this one of the most important winter habitats for bats in all Europe. In early spring there are popular guided bat tours.
In more recent times, the Citadel has become a cultural and event center. Music festivals and concerts and other events are scheduled on a regular basis. Most music events are scheduled in the evenings, so they don't normally impede on the regular opening hours. Too see what's happening visit the events tab on the official website.
Facts For Your Visit
Fee: YesZitadelle 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: 1:00 – 8:00 PM
- Friday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Saturday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Sunday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Address: Am Juliusturm 64, 13599 Berlin, Germany
Phone: 030 3549440
Official Website: Zitadelle
Zitadelle Reviews
Rated out of 5
OK, so I only visited the Citadel for a gig, but it was really stunning, amazing venue to see live music!
I'd like to back and visit it in a more "tourist" way when I can, gorgeous building, easily accessible via the train, and the gig/festival itself was really great (except for the fact that nobody was told the bars were cash only, and there was only one atm!!!!)
But aside from that, there were loads of food & beer stalls, places to sit & chill - and it was a lot bigger than it felt!
Holly Cheesman - a month ago
Hidden gem to visit near Berlin. The entry fee is 4.5 euros for adult. They have discounts for large groups. They also provide paper map to navigate inside. You can easily spend 2-3 hours inside. There is a cafe inside. Magnificent art, museum and sculpture inside.
Manish Saraswat - a month ago
Wonderful historical place, I recommend taking the audioguide to know more about the place or reading about it. It was an important fortress during the Napoleonic wars.
There is a pretty goof caffee inside as well.
Entrance is 4.5€ anf audioguide 2€, good price for what you get in my opinion.
Rene Salcedo - 2 months ago
Well worth the 4,50€ entry, but make sure to eat properly in Spandau old town first as there's only a small cafe inside the citadel with cakes and drinks.
My personal highlights inside were (A) the Julius tower with a fantastic 360° view over the surrounding area, including Spandau old tow, Teufelsberg and more, and (B) the Proviantmagazin on the east side of the citadel with a fantastic sculpture exhibition! Recommend going there in the afternoon, the sun rays fall perfectly inside 😍 Also highly recommend the green room for its audio and visual experience, as well as the dark room for the visual experience, all inside Proviantmagazin! Walking into the dark room without seeing anything at first and then experiencing the shaking floor is something else!
Daniel Hermes - 4 months ago
An imposing fortification with interesting architecture. It's worth a leisurely stroll if you have plenty of time in the city. Look out for events taking place there. Those with a medieval theme are a spectacle in themselves. They are very worthwhile.
Barbara Macedo - 3 months ago
Directions
How to get to Zitadelle by U-Bahn
Nearest U-Bahn Line(s): U7
Nearest U-Bahn Station(s): U Zitadelle
From Zitadelle Station on the U7 line it is only a 5 minute walk west on Am Juliusturm to the entrance.
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Photo Credit: YouEs - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: YouEs - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: YouEs - cc license via Flickr -
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Photo Credit: YouEs - cc license via Flickr
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