Victory Column

Overview

The Siegessäule is a 67 m column crowned by a gilded bronze statue of Victoria, standing at the centre of a grand roundabout in the Tiergarten. A 285-step spiral staircase leads to a viewing platform.

Highlights

• Victoria statue: The 8.3 m gilded figure — affectionately called "Goldelse" (Golden Lizzy) — weighs 35 tonnes.
• Observation platform: 360° views over the Tiergarten, Brandenburg Gate, and the Spree.
• Mosaic frieze: Three restored glass mosaics by Anton von Werner depict the wars of German unification.

History

Designed by Heinrich Strack and completed in 1873 to celebrate Prussian victories over Denmark, Austria, and France. Originally placed in front of the Reichstag, the Nazis relocated it to its current position in 1938–39.

Visitor Tips

• Access: Reach the column via underground pedestrian tunnels from any of the four surrounding streets.
• Fitness required: No elevator — the spiral staircase is narrow and steep.
• Duration: 20–30 minutes.