What is the Siegessäule (West) in Berlin, Germany?
The Siegessäule or more commonly referred as the Victory Column is a landmark prominent in the capital city of Germany, Berlin. Lying in the middle of the Großer Stern Roundabout in the Tiergarten park, the Siegessäule has a philosophical and anthropological and historical value. Now let us consider it in more details.
History of the Siegessäule
The Siegessäule was commissioned to the architect, Heinrich Strack and was last project completed in 1873. Although it was constructed particularly in honor of the victorious campaigns by the Prussian forces, especially during the Danish-Prussian War, Austro-Prussian War and the Franco-Prussian War. It was first sited in front of the Reichstark building but was shifted to its present position in 1938 by the government of the Nazi as a part of their architectural plan of a throrough fare to the city center of Berlin.
Architecture and Design
The Siegessäule is around 69 meters high/226 feets in height and consists of three parts. The base has four bronze plaques representing important battles and fights are depicted on the column together with its spiral carving that contains names of generals and fighters. At the above, there is a Roman figure called Victoria; she is depicted as a slim woman wearing a robe, having wings at her back.
Visiting the Siegessäule
Location and Access
The Siegessäule, very convenient in terms of getting there and surrounded by public transportations. Specifically, it is situated in Tiergarten park close to the Brandenburg Gate. The nearest U-Bahn stations here are called Hansaplatz, and it is merely a few minutes of walk and free of charge: It is noteworthy that this rail treatment involves no charges for the subway stations within walking distance. Also, different bus lines cross the area of the Großer Stern roundabout which makes a convenient to get to the monument.
Observation Deck
For those with the spirit to conquering the 285 steps, there is a beautiful view of Berlin at the top of the Siegessäule if one can go to the observation deck. From there you are able to view the beautiful scenery of the city skyline, some of which include Brandenburg gate, the building of industry and reconstruction the Reichstag, and the protestant church, Berlin Cathedral.
Park and Surroundings
The Siegessäule stands in the beautiful landscaped area of the Tiergarten park which is a famous site to have a walk for both the residents and the tourists. After the exploration of the monument tourists can go round the park and have a rest taking a meal with them, or just sit and feel the calmness. The park is most stunning when the trees bear blossoms during the spring period in particular the cherry blossoms.
Interesting Facts
- Victoria, the statue is located at the top of Siegessäule and it weighs approximately 35 tons.
- It will be also associate with the movie scene frequently seen in the 1998 movie – Run Lola Run.
- In the just concluded FIFA World Cup in Germany in the year 2006, common podium such as the Siegessäule were put into use as screen.
- The area of the park located at the base of the Siegessäule is free of admission, however tourists need to pay some amount of money to climb the spire.
Conclusion
Siegessäule is an emblem of Berlin and the symbol of victory and defiance of the society. The Siegessäule is a monumental feature that tourists cannot afford to miss when in Berlin because whether they are interested with architectural design, wide view, or a historical site, it is all found here. Explore this place to the full and create wonderful memories when visiting.
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