Reichstag dome, Glass dome at Reichstag Building, Berlin, Germany.
The installation is a glass dome on the parliament building in Berlin, Germany. A spiral ramp of 230 meters (755 feet) winds upward, while central mirrors provide views into the chamber and across the cityscape at the same time.
The original stone and copper cover was destroyed in April 1945 during fighting, and authorities demolished what remained in 1954. After reunification, parliament decided in 1991 to build a transparent replacement, which Norman Foster completed by 1999.
The structure represents the idea that citizens stand above politics and can watch the chamber from above. This architectural gesture makes the democratic commitment to openness physically tangible for every visitor.
Entry is free but requires online registration ahead, especially several weeks during busy periods. Audio guides in multiple languages are available, and evening visits show the city lit up, particularly at sunset.
A system of 360 mobile mirrors in the central cone follows the sun automatically to direct natural light into the chamber, while an automated sunshade blocks direct rays. This setup can cut artificial lighting consumption by up to thirty percent.
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