Berlin: the impressive Reichstag

The German parliament is in an impressive renovated 19th century building in the 1990's after Germany was unified.  Except for the outside walls, the building was completely gutted, then crowned with a spectacular dome that allows the visitor a 360 degree view of the city.  The architecture is stunning, as you can see below.  There were huge lineups throughout the day to get in to see the dome, slowed down by heavy security.  We followed the advice of the travel guides - go first thing in the morning or late in the day.  We were there to catch the sunset over the Tiergarten.  There was still a half hour wait - but well worth it.

The outside of the Reichstag

The dome with its centre chute

Looking down from the top level of the dome

Looking up from the top!

From the outside

The Spreebogen government complex (on the bend of the River Spree) beside the Reichstag - the white crosses commemorate people who were killed by East German border guards when trying to escape cross the river

The Brandenburg Gate is very close to the Reichstag - it's the tourist hub of Berlin