Berlin’s Victory Column stands at Großer Stern in Tiergarten, reached through an underground passage beneath the traffic circle. Built to commemorate Prussian victories in the 19th century, it is crowned by a gilded statue of Victoria, the Roman goddess of victory. A small exhibition at the base gives historical context and displays models of monuments from around the world. If you can manage the steep, narrow spiral staircase of about 280 steps, the viewing platform looks out over Tiergarten and Berlin landmarks including the Brandenburg Gate.
A monument shaped by Prussian victories
Designed by Heinrich Strack after the Second Schleswig War of 1864, the Victory Column was inaugurated in 1873. By then, Prussia had also defeated Austria and its German allies in 1866, and France in 1870 to 1871. The monument’s purpose grew to encompass those later victories.
The gilded figure at the summit is Victoria, the Roman goddess of victory. Sculptor Friedrich Drake designed the bronze statue, which is 8.3 metres high. Berliners also know the figure by the nickname Goldelse.
The column’s place in Tiergarten
The monument originally stood near the Reichstag, on Königsplatz. It was later moved to Großer Stern, the large traffic circle in Tiergarten, during the Nazi period. Today, the column rises from the centre of the park, surrounded by busy roads.
To reach its base, use an underground passage beneath the road. This gives you a way to approach the monument on foot despite the traffic circling it.
The exhibition and the climb
A small exhibition at the base provides background on the monument and includes models of monuments from around the world. Look around before climbing to connect the displays with the history of the column.
The viewing platform is reached by a narrow, steep spiral staircase of about 280 steps. There are seats along the route where you can pause. The space at the top is limited, and people may be moving in both directions, so take care on the stairs.
Views from the upper platform
From the platform, you can look across the tree canopy of Tiergarten and out towards Berlin landmarks such as the Brandenburg Gate, Bellevue Palace, the Reichstag and the TV Tower. The view changes with the park: summer foliage fills the foreground, while autumn brings colour to the trees.
After coming down, Tiergarten makes a natural extension to the visit. The column is set within the park, so you can continue your walk among its paths and greenery.
Häufige Fragen
How many steps are there to the viewing platform?
The spiral staircase has about 280 steps. It is narrow and steep, with seats along the way for resting.
How do you reach the Victory Column on foot?
Use one of the underground passages beneath the traffic circle to reach the monument.
Can you pay for admission by card?
No. Admission is cash only.
What can you see from the top?
The platform looks across Tiergarten and towards Berlin sights including the Brandenburg Gate, Bellevue Palace, the Reichstag and the TV Tower.
