Berlin BERLINER DOME

Located on an island in the river Spree, which is also referred to as the Museum Island, lies the major and influential Protestant Church in Berlin called The Berliner Dom or Berlin Cathedral. The intricate cathedral was constructed in the year 1894, and was completed in 1905. Along with the Berlin Dom, the tomb of the Prussian Hohenzollern dynasty was also built at the same year. Since the middle ages, the decorative gravestone went through a lot of renovation stages in its architectural design.

Originally, the church was built in 1465. With a relatively humble beginning, it later on functioned as a court church intended for the Hohenzollern family. After which, the church was restored to a cathedral designed by Johann Boumann. It was constructed in the years 1747 to 1750 under Friedrich the Great. Moreover, Karl Friedrich made some minor changes in its classical design. Nevertheless, it preserved its architectural resemblance to that of St. Peter’s Cathedral in Rome.

In the year 1885, Julius Rashdorff proposed the unification of the various phases and stylistic progress of the church to King Friedrich Wilhelm IV. With the King’s order, it was finally demolished in 1893. The construction of the new 114 metre long and 73 metre wide cathedral began, with a more elaborate design influenced by Italian Renaissance and much larger place, which we now call The Berlin Dom. The Berlin Dom is considered as the counterpart to the Catholic Church in Rome, known as St. Peter’s Basilica.

Heavily damaged during World War 2, the church was not utilized then. Furthermore, in 1993, it was re-established and series of renovations persisted until 2006. Part of the renovations from 1975 to 1982 included the introduction of the eight mosaics, which embellished the ceiling of the dome. Additionally, the cupola and spires were used for the edifice of the external dome. After many years of separation, the parishioners were finally unified and celebrated mass once again in the year 1980. Funerals and baptisms were also performed.

Being famous as the Hohenzollern family tomb, there are approximately ninety tombs and sarcophagi that are exhibited. Adding in the exhibition, are the gold-plated tin and lead casts of the influential Prussian Kings, Frederick and Sophie Charlotte; which was impressively made by Andreas Schluter.

The Berliner Dom has many other features as well. Tourists could look forward to the significant works of art such as the Petrus Mosaic by Guido Reni and the Baptismal Font by Christian Daniel Rauch. Additionally, the Dome’s one-of-a-kind organ with roughly 7,000 pipes is definitely a work of genius and believed to be the largest in Germany. The art lovers would truly appreciate the uniqueness and beauty of these art pieces. Its captivating beauty would truly mesmerize the viewers.

When visiting the place, tourists are advised to wear their most comfortable clothes and footwear as it requires climbing 270 steps. Nevertheless, the magnificent viewing gallery of Mitte and its breathtaking scenery makes the trip worthwhile. The dome itself is an eye-catching piece of art as it is filled with rich components of the New Testament and Reformation periods. The dome is also used as a place for readings and concerts. Guided tours are offered especially for first time tourists. Moreover, the entrance fee incorporates guides, which comes in different languages.