The Siegessäule (Victory Column) is one of Berlin's most iconic monuments, located in the center of the large Tiergarten park, at the roundabout called Großer Stern.
The column reaches approximately 67 meters in height.
History and significance:
- Military commemoration: it was designed by Heinrich Strack and inaugurated in 1873 to celebrate Prussia's victories in the wars of German unification against Denmark (1864), Austria (1866), and France (1870/71).
- Change of location: originally, the column stood in front of the Reichstag (Parliament) building. In 1939, during the Nazi regime, it was moved to its current location as part of the city's redevelopment plans.
- The Golden Statue: at the top is the gilded bronze statue of the Roman goddess Victoria (goddess of victory), designed by Friedrich Drake. Berliners affectionately call her Goldelse ("Little Golden Elise"). The statue is about 8.3 meters tall and weighs 35 tons.
- Observation deck: there is an observation platform about 51 meters high, which offers an incredible panoramic view of Tiergarten park and Straße des 17 Juni avenue.
To reach the top, it is necessary to climb a spiral staircase with 285 steps (there is no elevator for the public).
Important safety tip: the Siegessäule is located in the center of an extremely busy roundabout. Never try to cross the street running between the cars. There are four underground pedestrian tunnels (called Torhäuser) located on the sidewalks around the square, which safely take you to the base of the column.
Opening
It is usually open from 9:30 AM to 6:30 PM.
Tickets
The entrance fee is €4.00.
Address
Straße des 17. Juni
U9 Hansaplatz Station
Bus line 100: This is the famous regular "tourist bus." It stops right at the Großer Stern station, directly in front of the column. Bus number 100 passes by the main tourist attractions between Alexanderplatz and the Zoo.
