Victory Column

Overview

Standing majestically in the sprawling greenery of Tiergarten, Berlin's largest inner-city park, the Victory Column, or Siegessäule as it's known locally, is an iconic and unmissable landmark. Crowned by a radiant golden statue, it offers a breathtaking panoramic perspective on the city's dynamic landscape. Positioned prominently at the Großer Stern, a large central traffic circle, this monument serves as a powerful symbol, deeply woven into Berlin's rich historical and cultural tapestry.

History & Cultural Background

The genesis of the Victory Column dates back to 1864, when architect Heinrich Strack designed it to commemorate Prussia's triumph in the Second Schleswig War against Denmark. However, by its grand inauguration on September 2, 1873, the monument's purpose had expanded. Prussia had subsequently secured decisive victories over Austria in 1866 and France between 1870-1871. These three conflicts, collectively forming the Wars of German Unification, led to the establishment of the German Empire. To reflect these broader successes, an impressive bronze sculpture of Victoria, the Roman goddess of victory, was added to the column's pinnacle. The monument's original placement was on Königsplatz, now Platz der Republik, in front of the Reichstag building. Its relocation to the current Großer Stern site occurred between 1938 and 1939, driven by Adolf Hitler's ambitious plans to transform Berlin into 'Germania.' During this move, a fourth drum segment was incorporated, significantly increasing the column's height. Remarkably, the Siegessäule withstood the devastation of World War II with minimal damage. The bronze reliefs at its base, depicting the military campaigns, were removed by French occupying forces in 1945 but were faithfully restored in 1987 for Berlin's 750th-anniversary celebrations.

What Makes It Special

Reaching a towering 67 meters (220 feet), the Victory Column is an imposing structure. Its most distinctive feature is the 8.3-meter (27-foot) tall, 35-ton gilded bronze statue of Victoria, masterfully crafted by Friedrich Drake, crowning the summit. This radiant figure, often sparkling in the sun, grasps a laurel wreath in one hand and a staff topped with the Iron Cross in the other, with an eagle adorning her helmet, symbolizing Prussia. The column itself is an architectural marvel, constructed from sandstone and embellished with 60 gilded gun barrels, captured as trophies from the very wars it commemorates. Its robust base, made of polished red Swedish granite, showcases intricate bronze reliefs detailing historical events. Within the pedestal, a round hall, supported by 16 granite columns, houses a captivating glass mosaic by Anton von Werner, illustrating the formation of the German Empire.

Stories, Fun Facts & Local Details

Berliners hold a deep fondness for their golden goddess, affectionately bestowing upon her the nickname 'Goldelse' or 'Golden Lizzy.' A whimsical detail suggests that sculptor Friedrich Drake used his own daughter as the model for Victoria's face. The column has also found its way into modern culture, notably featured in Wim Wenders' iconic film 'Wings of Desire' as a celestial meeting point for angels. It made an appearance in U2's music video for 'Stay (Faraway, So Close!)' and inspired Paul van Dyk's legendary trance track 'For an Angel.' In 2008, the monument gained significant international attention when then-presidential candidate Barack Obama chose its surroundings for a pivotal speech. Historically, it was also a central gathering spot for the renowned Love Parade techno festival. Today, the Siegessäule serves a contemporary role as a symbol and popular meeting point for Berlin's vibrant LGBT community, even inspiring the name of a prominent local gay magazine.

Visitor Perspective

For the curious traveler, a visit to the Victory Column promises both a journey through history and stunning vistas. Accessing the monument is an experience in itself, requiring passage through one of the pedestrian tunnels that safely guide visitors beneath the busy Großer Stern roundabout. Once inside, a challenging yet deeply rewarding ascent of 285 steps leads to an observation platform situated approximately 51 meters high. While this climb demands reasonable fitness, the panoramic 360-degree views of Tiergarten Park and Berlin beyond are an unparalleled reward. From this elevated vantage point, you can clearly discern famous landmarks such as the Brandenburg Gate, the Reichstag, and the TV Tower, offering a comprehensive sweep of Berlin's urban panorama. Before or after your climb, take time to explore the column's base, where modest exhibits and the impressive mosaic frieze provide deeper historical context. The Victory Column is typically open daily, almost year-round, offering flexibility for your travel plans. Be mindful that the viewing platform can be quite windy, so considering an extra layer of clothing will enhance your enjoyment of this unique Berlin perspective.