Spandau Citadel

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Take a long journey back in history with a visit to the Spandau Citadel, one of the best preserved renaissance fortresses remaining in Europe.

The history of the Citadel goes back to at least 1197, the earliest mention of Spandau Castle at the junction of the Havel and Spree rivers. In the early 13th century the Julius Tower was added to help defend the castle. Between 1559 and 1594 the four-bastioned fortress was built around the tower to defend the city of Berlin.

Zitadelle Spandau, as it is called in German, has lived through a number of conflicts over the centuries. In 1675 it was besieged by the Swedes. In 1813, seven years after being surrendered to the French under Napoleon, it was taken back by Prussian and Russian fighters, but not without considerable damage that had to be restored. Although it was used as a defense at the end of the Second World War, it escaped bombing because Soviet forces negotiated its surrender.

Visiting the Citadel is an immersive experience. Many visitors enjoy an entire day exploring the historic site.

We suggest starting with the museum as it will give you a strong point of reference for understanding and exploring the rest of the property.

If you are able, be sure to climb the 153 steps to the top of the Julius Tower for spectacular views of the fort, the river, the countryside and the city beyond. This activity is included in your admission and available during all opening hours.

Another fascinating thing to see at Spandauer Zitadelle are the bat vaults. Over 10,000 bats winter in the brick walls of the citadel every year making this one of the most important winter habitats for bats in all Europe. In early spring there are popular guided bat tours.

In more recent times, the Citadel has become a cultural and event center. Music festivals and concerts and other events are scheduled on a regular basis. Most music events are scheduled in the evenings, so they don't normally impede on the regular opening hours. Too see what's happening visit the events tab on the official website.

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Facts For Your Visit

Fee: Yes

Zitadelle 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: 1:00 – 8:00 PM
Friday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Saturday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Sunday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Address: Am Juliusturm 64, 13599 Berlin, Germany

Phone: 030 3549440

Official Website: Zitadelle

Zitadelle Reviews

Rated 4.5 out of 5 Star Rating

4 Star Rating Surprisingly large citadel with few visitors so it feels like you have the place to yourself. I recommend climbing the Julius Tower for a great panoramic view of the surrounding area. The museum exhibits aren't super clearly marked and can be a bit hard to find, but they were informative and worth the visit.
Brendan Barnes - a month ago

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5 Star Rating Extremely good value for money compared to some other places in Berlin. The citadel is huge and there is so much to see. The staff are all very friendly. Definitely worth a visit, and have a good look around because you may miss some treasures without realising it. We bought tickets on the door without any problems.
Mark S - 3 months ago

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3 Star Rating Lots of history, if you’re willing to read into it. Overall, not very immersive or cohesive (due to the nature of the additions to the complex over time, which is understandable. The construction was also quite annoying). Being said, it is a great value for the entry cost — just 2.50 if you’re a student. The tower is amazing and the museum with the ruins is also pretty cool. Stop by if you’re in the area or if you’re looking for a cheap activity.
Victoria - 2 months ago

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5 Star Rating The guided tour was excellent, and a great help in understanding this huge complex. Learning that the Nazis manufactured gas there overshadowed the visit somewhat, but this was always a military fort and never a particularly happy place.
Gwendolen Webster - a month ago

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5 Star Rating OK, so I only visited the Citadel for a gig, but it was really stunning, amazing venue to see live music! I'd like to back and visit it in a more "tourist" way when I can, gorgeous building, easily accessible via the train, and the gig/festival itself was really great (except for the fact that nobody was told the bars were cash only, and there was only one atm!!!!) But aside from that, there were loads of food & beer stalls, places to sit & chill - and it was a lot bigger than it felt!
Holly Cheesman - 5 months ago

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