Victory Column
The Berlin Victory Column is located on the Great Star in the Great Tiergarten and is one of Berlin’s most important landmarks. It is also one of Germany’s most significant national monuments. The Victory Column includes an observation platform, providing a great view.
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Victory Column with Goldelse
Affectionately called the “Goldelse,” the Victory Column Berlin was built from 1864 to 1873. The architect was Heinrich Strack, a German architect of the Schinkel school. Originally erected on Königsplatz to commemorate Germany’s victories against Denmark, Austria, and France between 1864 and 1871, it was relocated to its current location, along with the monuments of Bismarck, Roon, and Moltke, from 1938 to 1939.
Today, it stands in the central square of the bustling Great Star on the Straße des 17. Juni and is one of Berlin’s most well-known landmarks.
Crowning Victoria on the Victory Column
Friedrich Drake created the sculpture of the goddess of victory, Viktoria. The bronze sculpture holds a laurel wreath aloft in her right hand and a standard with the Iron Cross in her left. An eagle sits on the helmet. The bronze figure is 8.32 meters tall and weighs 35 tons. It is located on the Column, which is 67 meters high. The column consists of a pedestal covered with polished red granite and four tapering drums made of Obernkirchener sandstone.
The Column stands on a pedestal adorned with four bronze reliefs depicting the three Wars of Unification and the victorious entry of troops into Berlin in 1871.
Events around the Victory Column
Throughout history, the Victory Column has been a focal point for events in Berlin, including the Love Parade, Christopher Street Day, and various demonstrations. Barack Obama delivered a speech here to over 200,000 people during the United States presidential campaign.
Observation Platform
A spiral staircase with 285 steps leads to an observation platform. At the approximately 51-meter-high platform, visitors enjoy a panoramic view of the city’s landmarks, including the Great Tiergarten, Potsdamer Platz, and the Brandenburg Gate.
Address
Großer Stern 1
10557 Berlin
Opening Hours
April to October: Monday to Friday 9:30 am to 6:30 pm, Saturday and Sunday until 7 pm
November to March: Monday to Sunday 9:30 am to 5:30 pm
Closed on December 24