The Reichstag

The Reichstag is a stunning example of the new Berlin. After first being burned, and then almost completely destroyed by Allied bombs during the second world war, it remained in ruins until 1964 when it was reconstructed but remained largely unused. During the time Germany was divided, the nominal capital of West Germany moved to Bonn. However, once Germany became 'whole', all parties agreed that Berlin should become the capital once more and the Reichstag was once again rebuilt. The original facade remains, "Dem Deutschen Volke", but now there is a new magnificent glass dome atop the structure in a nod to the original cupola and a funnel of mirrors within that reflects natural light into the legislative chambers below.