Foster's glass dome over democracy — where transparency became a political statement
Addition to the Reichstag by Norman Foster 1995–1999.
Featured in Foster + Partners's definitive monograph, Norman Foster: A Life in Architecture.
Visitor Guide
Book the free rooftop visit well in advance (mandatory registration online). The spiral ramp up the dome offers 360° views over Berlin. Go at sunset for the best light.
From the Platz der Republik facing south. Inside the dome, photograph the mirrored cone reflecting the parliamentary chamber below — it was designed as a metaphor for democratic transparency.
Free — register online in advance (required). Audio guide included. Open daily. Rooftop restaurant (Käfer) requires separate reservation.
The mirrored inverted cone at the center doesn't just symbolize transparency — it's a functional light well that redirects daylight into the Bundestag chamber below, reducing artificial lighting by 50%.
1-1.5 hours
Design & Structure
Foster + Partners designed the dome as a sustainable energy system: the mirrored cone tracks the sun, reflecting daylight down while a heat recovery system uses rising warm air from the chamber to preheat fresh air intake.
Structural steel, glass, mirrors. The dome weighs 1,200 tonnes and sits atop the restored 1894 sandstone walls — old and new deliberately visible together.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Who designed Reichstag dome?+
Reichstag dome was designed by Foster + Partners and completed in 1999. It is located in Bezirk Mitte, Germany.
Where is Reichstag dome located?+
Reichstag dome is located in Bezirk Mitte, Germany. Its coordinates are 52.5186°, 13.3761°.
When was Reichstag dome built?+
Reichstag dome was completed in 1999. It was designed by Foster + Partners.
Can I visit Reichstag dome?+
Reichstag dome is a real building in Bezirk Mitte that can be viewed from the outside. Check local information for interior access and visiting hours. Use the Parametric Atlas walking tour feature to plan a route that includes this building.