Reichstag

Originally designed by Paul Wallot (completed 1894), the history of this awe-inspiring building is intertwined with its noble architecture. A monumental building with four immense facades, it has a huge portico with eight Corinthian columns in front. Suffering from arson in 1933 and war-torn soon after, the Reichstag has been twice restored (latterly by Lord Norman Foster & Partners). He restored much of the original elements, removing the internal additions and mezzanine floors added after the war by Paul Baumgarten, and inserted the glass dome, which is now the most prestigious tourist spot in Berlin.
The glass-panelled dome has brought more light into the parliamentary chamber, orchestrating light around the dome and building as never before. The dome, with its spiralled climb-ramps, provides outstanding views over Berlin.