The structurally impressive Berliner Dom (Berlin Cathedral) can be seen from almost anywhere in the city. The Protestant church that originally stood here was ruined during bombings in World War II, but has been fully restored to former glory. A beautiful example of neoclassical and baroque architecture, the Dom is stunning inside and out.
The most visible feature, the turquoise dome on top, is suspended 70 metres above the nave, and is an impressive example of engineering and artistry. The inside of the cathedral is just as grand, with 35 mosaics, each containing around 500,000 tiles and 2,000 shades of colour, depicting the Sermon on the Mount. Colour is everywhere inside the building, shining from the three beautiful stained glass windows telling the story of the birth, crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus.
For the adventurous types, the glorious views across the Berlin skyline are a worthy reward for climbing the 270 steps of the cupola walkway. From here, visitors are treated to the best of central Berlin, including the Reichstag Building, the Fernsehturm and the old city hall. A trip into the Holezenzollern Crypt is also well worth a visit. It contains 94 royal tombs covering 400 years of burial rituals of Prussian and Brandenburg royalty. To get the most out of the experience join one of the guided tours included in the admission price. Or stop off at the Cathedral Museum for extra information about its long history.
Experience the Berliner Dom in action at one of the services, held twice a day during the week and once on Saturdays and Sundays. Attending a service comes with the added bonus of hearing the dramatic sound of the 7,000 pipe organ – one of the oldest and most prized in the country – fill every nook and cranny of the cathedral.
The Berliner Dom is located on Museum Island in the centre of Berlin. It is open every day, although not until noon on Sundays. S-Bahn, U-Bahn, trams and buses all serve the island.
