Victory Column

(Local Name: Siegessäule) The Victory Column in Berlin stands in the center of "Grosser Stern" Square on Strasse des 17. Juni, about halfway between Ernst-Reuter-Platz and the Brandenburg Gate. Originally commissioned in 1865, it was ceremonially inaugurated on Sept. 2, 1873, the anniversary of the German victory at Sedan, with a great military parade attended by the Emperor William I and his generals. It commemorates the three victorious wars of 1864 against Denmark, 1866 against Austria and 1870-71 against France. The shaft of the column incorporates a large number of cannon barrels captured from the enemy. The column stands on a high granite plinth with bronze reliefs depicting scenes from the three wars. On the base of the column, which is enclosed within an open colonnade, is a mosaic (by Anton von Werner) symbolizing the achievement of German unity in 1870-71. The column is crowned by a gilded figure of the goddess Victory holding the symbols of victory. The figure, more than 8 m/26ft high, was the work of Friedrich Drake. The column, which is 69.27 m/228ft high overall, can be climbed by means of a spiral staircase (285 steps). At a height of 48 m/157ft is an observation platform from which there are panoramic views. However, the platform is closed for repairs until further notice.

Until 1938 the Victory Column, together with statues of Bismarck, Moltke and von Roon, stood in front of the Reichstag Building.