The Reichstag (parliament) building is a significant historical landmark in Berlin. The original building was opened in 1894 and used for the German parliament until it was severely damaged by a fire in 1933. Further damage occurred through bombing in WWII. Although the ruined building was partially restored in the 1960's, it wasn't until after German reunification that it underwent a reconstruction led by internationally renowned architect Norman Foster. Completed in 1999, this impressive building has now once again assumed its role as the meeting place of the German parliament.
A feature of the reconstructed Reichstag is the large glass dome at the very top of the building. The dome covers the main hall of the parliament and via a system of adjustable mirrors, beams natural light down to the parliament floor. To mitigate any adverse effects from strong sunlight there is a large sun shield that tracks the movement of the sun electronically. The dome also affords a 360-degree view of the surrounding Berlin cityscape.
With advance arrangement it is possible for visitors to enter the glass dome and walk inside it to the top. Bazflyer friends from the UK, Kate and Bill, had fortunately attended to this critical detail. At the duly appointed time the four of us were processed through German security and then let loose within this absolutely amazing construction. The view from the top of the dome, out across Berlin, was something else again.....
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