Throughout the centuries, many churches have stood on the location of the current Berliner Dom. The first one was erected in 1465 for the reigning royal family, the Hohenzollern, and was little more than a chapel at that time. In 1747, it was replaced by a Baroque cathedral designed by Johann Boumann, before being transformed once again in 1822 by Karl Friedrich Schinkel. Today's Dom was built between 1894 and 1905 during King Wilhelm II's reign. Almost completely destroyed in World War II, the Berliner Dom remained a ruin until restoration work finally began in 1973. Some of the cathedral's highlights include the mosaics covering the cupola, the crypt, the altar and the altar windows. The Dom also enshrines over 80 members of the Hohenzollern family. Those visiting must take a look at the Sauer organ within the cathedral, one of the largest in Germany, and take in the views from the roof promenade.
C/O Berlin calls itself an "International Forum for Visual Dialogues," and while this may be apt, it doesn't actually describe what C/O is. It is simply an excellent gallery that houses temporary exhibitions of photographs and photographic installations by the world's leading documentary photographers, from Henri Cartier-Bresson to Trent Park. It is not particularly well known, but for photographers, lovers of photography, or even just people who are interested in the world, it is one of the must-see museums in Berlin. Its exhibitions, usually by multiple photographers, never leave the viewer untouched.
Constructed between 1884 and 1894, the imposing Reichstag stands witness to Germany's past and present. It was established as a parliamentary house for the German Empire under Otto von Bismarck and has since seen more than a century of European history unfurl. After World War II, the Reichstag was neglected until the fall of the Berlin Wall in 1989, at which time, work began on returning the building to its original purpose. This new attention led to such additions as the iconic glass dome, which was added by British architect Sir Norman Foster. Today, visitors can climb up to the dome and enjoy panoramic views of brilliant Berlin from the terrace.
Set inside the Erholungspark Marzahn, Gärten der Welt is comprised of beautiful themed gardens. These lovely landscapes are predominantly inspired by the flora of Asia. The first garden to open in the park was Chinese-themed in the year 2000. Stroll through the Japanese, Korean, Balinese, Oriental and Italian gardens and you will be amazed by their unique beauty. From having unique structures using Chinese, Korean and Italian architecture depending on the respective themes, to astounding fountains and artistic statues, the park is an engineering marvel. Ideal for going on a picnic with family, the park has a strict no pets and bikes policy.
The botanical garden and botanic museum's large and sedate park in the southwest of Berlin provides the perfect respite to a hard day's slog through the hectic inner-city. One can admire the English gardens and a collection of flora from all over Europe, Asia, Africa and the Americas. The many greenhouses here are home to many rare plants from around the globe. Visitors shouldn't miss the unique Botanical Museum at the entrance.
Built for the 1936 Olympic Games, the Olympiastadion conjures up memories of excited fans and Jesse Owens sprinting and leaping for four gold medals. Today, the Olympiastadion is home to Berlin's premier soccer club, Hertha BSC, and hosts major sporting events like the ISTAF Athletics Meeting. International performers like Michael Jackson, Beyonce, The Rolling Stones and U2 have taken the crowds by storm with their dazzling concerts here. Designed to impress the world, this monumental multi-purpose arena has done just that since its reopening in 2004. Visitors can wander around the stadium on event-free days, or choose to go on a guided tour of the massive arena. The visitor's center is perfect to learn more about the fascinating history of this monumental structure.
Gotischer Saal in der Zitadelle is one of the many event venues inside the historic 15th-century building. Weddings and other intimate events are regularly organized at this venue apart from the wide range of classical concerts. The brick-exposed walls and pillars at this venue add to the overall rustic ambiance. The adjoining foyer area of Gotischer Saal in der Zitadelle can also be rented for bigger events.
The Ordenshaus is a historic building built in the style of a three-wing castle from the early 20th Century. Built by local architects Ernst Paul and Olaf Lillo, the structure is an imposing brick and shingle building with a wide staircase leading up to the main door. The venue is now under the purview of the Freemason society and is only opened to the public on special occasions. It is also available for rent for private events and functions.
The Zagreus Projekt explores artistic and social concepts through traditional and contemporary art work alongside culinary creations. Artists are invited to create installations and artwork at the gallery, inspired by which a complementary menu is designed and served to the gallery's discerning clientele. The culinary and artistic aspects of each installation are born of collaboration between the chefs and the artists to create a cohesive whole. From traditional recipes to contemporary techniques, the gallery showcases a range that is astoundingly varied, engaging the audience in an immersive experience. Brain-child of Ulrich Krauss, the Zagreus Projekt offers an experience that should not be missed by those who appreciate art in all its forms.
The quaint Blankensee village has a rich history, especially when it comes to agriculture, and you can learn about it all at the Bauernmuseum Blankensee. Offering regular guided and thematic tours of the facility, the museum also has a Bavarian restaurant which offers delectable local fare, and can be used to host parties.
While in Michendorf while, visit the Volksbühne Michendorf that has been showcasing famous plays for over a decade. Throughout the year, the theater hosts plays such as Hansel and Gretel, Burning Love and many more talented artists. Besides plays, you can choose to attend their art exhibitions, readings, and concerts that are held on a regular basis.