Victory Column (Siegessaule)
About
The Berlin Victory Column (German: Siegessäule) stands majestically in the Tiergarten, overlooking the city’s heart. Originally erected in 1873 to commemorate Prussia’s triumphs over Denmark, Austria, and France, the column was relocated to its present site in 1938/39 and was ceremoniously raised by the German Army General Staff in 1939. The monument’s soaring 67‑meter height is topped by a bronze statue of Victoria, the Roman goddess of victory, a gift from the artist Friedrich Drake. At its base one finds polished red granite, bronze reliefs depicting battle scenes, and sandstone columns bearing fragments of cannon barrels from the various wars. Visitors are invited to ascend the column’s 270 steps for a sweeping 360‑degree view of Berlin’s skyline. Beneath the statue, a spiral staircase leads to the viewing platform – a free‑entry attraction that offers panoramic vistas as well as a glimpse of the adjoining Tiergarten. The column’s design blends neoclassical grandeur with symbolic military imagery, making it an engaging site for history enthusiasts, architecture lovers, and casual tourists alike. Beyond its architectural splendors, the Siegessäule has played a colourful role in Berlin’s cultural life—hosting a speech by Barack Obama in 2008, serving as a backdrop for the 2015 Pride parade, and occasionally featuring in films and television series during the Cold War era. It remains one of the city’s most photographed monuments, both in daylight and at dusk when its golden statue gleams over the trees.
Highlights
- Historic Victory Column
- Bronze Statue of Victoria
- 270-Step Spiral Stairs
- Panoramic View
Must-See Areas
Good to Know
Good for
Pros & Cons
What visitors love
- Stunning Architecture
- Iconic Views
Things to consider
- Crowded During Peak Season
- Challenging Stairs