Berlin Cathedral (Berliner Dom)

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Located next to Lustgarten on Museum Island, The Berlin Cathedral (Berliner Dom in German) is one of the most prominent landmarks in Berlin. The largest church in the city, it is an important Protestant church serving a congregation from Berlin and the surrounding community.

History

It is advantageous to know some history behind the iconic buildings we visit. The Berlin Cathedral has roots dating back to the 15th century when it comprised several buildings that were part of the Berlin City Palace.

Early in the nineteenth century, architect Karl Friedrich Schinkel changed the church into a neoclassical building. When Wilhelm II became emperor in 1888, he stood firm on creating a new church to better reflect the prestige of the monarchy.

It took three attempts at designing the new church for architect Julius Karl Raschdorf to satisfy the vision of Wilhelm II. He was looking for something comparable in grandeur to St Pauls Cathedral in London and St Peter’s in Rome. Construction of the new church took place between 1893 and 1905.

The Berlin Cathedral, like many buildings in Berlin, suffered heavy damage in the Second World War. Being in East Berlin after the war, some restoration work did take place starting in 1975, but a full restoration did not begin until the fall of the Berlin Wall. The restoration was substantially completed 1993, but the mosaics in the dome where not finished until 2002.

Architecture and Features

The Berlin Cathedral is recognized by its massive Dome topped with a lantern and gold cross. The top of the Dome is nearly 100 metres in height. Four towers, one on each corner, are topped with smaller domes.

The architecture is influenced by neo-renaissance and baroque styles.

You will find magnificent baroque ceilings here and from there you enter the splendid nave. The arches and ceilings are beautifully wrought and medieval in their design. Four towers surround the nave, and it is filled with sculptures that are mostly stylized in forms of animals and birds.

The Hohenzollern Crypt, beneath the cathedral, is the most important dynastic burial site in Germany.

Inside the cathedral, a museum features drawings and models illustrating its history. Walk in models give a sense of the church’s interior.

The cathedral's massive pipe organ is over a hundred years old. It has an incredible 7269 pipes.

For a splendid view and up-close look at the exterior you can climb 270 stairs to reach the outer walkway of the Dome. For many, this is the highlight of their visit.

Visiting the Berlin Cathedral

Visitors can enjoy seeing the outside of the Berlin Cathedral at any time. You can see the interior without charge by joining in on any of the scheduled worship services.

Outside those times, there’s an entrance fee that includes a guided tour. These tours run every 20 minutes when worship service or other events are not occurring.

Another way to experience the interior of the cathedral is to attend one of over a hundred concerts and events that take place every year. You can visit the official website to learn more about these events and when they are taking place.

Facts For Your Visit

Berlin Cathedral Hours:
Opening hours may differ on holidays

Monday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Thursday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Friday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Saturday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Sunday: 12:00 – 5:00 PM

Address: Am Lustgarten, 10178 Berlin, Germany

Phone: 030 20269136

Official Website: Berlin Cathedral

Berlin Cathedral Reviews

Rated 4.6 out of 5 Star Rating

5 Star Rating As magnificent as it can be! This cathedral is very different from other cathedral we have visited like the one in Cologne or Paris or London! But no less beautiful and breathtaking. We arrived 10 minutes before the 12:00 to 12:30 service, we very much enjoyed the performance of the church organ, the organ operator was very good, the entire church was full with the beautiful music! They don’t allow photography of video taping, so I can’t share any photos or video of the service! It is very beautiful structure!
Steven Cheng - a month ago

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3 Star Rating It isn't the grandest or most elegant cathedral in Europe (by a long way) but still worth a visit, especially from the trip up (300 steps) to the top where you do a circular walk outside with great views of the city. We went just before dusk in winter which made for great views as it got dark. Reduced stars for the fairly miserable experience getting in. You queue for a ticket machine just inside a small locker room so there are constantly people squeezing past with bags as you are trying to get your tickets from a machine that doesn't explain the options very well. Then when you go in a grumpy lady tells you that even small backpacks have to go in the lockers (lord only knows why - pun intended) but there isn't any obvious signage to tell you this when you are buying your tickets in the locker room.
Garry Miles - 2 weeks ago

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5 Star Rating Great place for a 360 view of Berlin.. cathedral not huge compared to other cities .. at 12.00 they to a 30 min service in German and English which was nice but note you have to be seated at this time do all sightseeing stops and then there is a bit of a rush to the stairs to go up….
Richard Tilden - a week ago

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4 Star Rating Berlin Cathedral is a stunning landmark that stands out with its grand architecture and detailed design. Located on Museum Island, it’s a must-visit for anyone interested in history, art, or simply beautiful buildings. The exterior is impressive, with intricate stonework and a large green dome that’s visible from a distance. Inside, the cathedral is equally magnificent, with beautiful stained glass, marble columns, and a grand altar. One of the highlights is the climb to the dome, which offers a panoramic view of Berlin, making it well worth the effort. The crypt, where many historical figures are buried, adds another layer of interest for history enthusiasts. Berlin Cathedral is not just a religious site but also a cultural and architectural gem. Whether you're a visitor or a local, it's a place to enjoy peaceful moments, take in the views, and appreciate Berlin’s rich history. Highly recommended for anyone in the city!
Nayan Vaghani - 2 months ago

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5 Star Rating The place is very beautiful. I went with my parents and we had a good time. We thought we could get a family ticket but we didn't understand the process. It's $10 per adult. Bring a €1 for the lockers. The steps are not joke but we did fine with them. Amazing views inside and out.
Alexandria Russell - 2 months ago

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Directions

How to get to Berlin Cathedral by U-Bahn, S-Bahn or MetroTram

Nearest U-Bahn, S-Bahn or MetroTram Line(s): S5, S7, S75, U2, U5, U8, M2, M4 ,M5, M6
Nearest U-Bahn, S-Bahn or MetroTram Station(s): Alexanderplatz