Not really a cathedral
Despite its name, it has never been the seat of a bishop. It's the Protestant Supreme Parish and Collegiate Church, built as the court church of the Hohenzollern dynasty.
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Berlin Cathedral: the history, and the cathedral that isn't one
Wilhelm II wanted a Protestant answer to St. Peter's in Rome, right next to the royal palace. Here's what you're looking at on Museum Island, and what to listen for when you get there.
Built1894–1905
ArchitectJulius Raschdorff
Height≈ 98 m
Reopened1993
Hear the Berlin Cathedral story, in the app's voice
A short preview. The full story plays on its own when you walk up to it with Urban Tales.
Three stories most visitors miss
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The night the dome burned
In May 1944, a fire burned the lantern on top of the dome and it crashed into the church. In East Berlin, restoration only began in 1975, and the church reopened in 1993.
3
Kings beneath the floor
The Hohenzollern Crypt holds around 90 coffins of the dynasty, including Frederick I, the first King of Prussia, and his wife Sophie Charlotte.
TipClimb the 270 steps to the dome walkway for one of the best views over Museum Island and the TV Tower. With Urban Tales running, the cathedral's story plays as you reach the Lustgarten.
Nearby landmarks
Berlin Cathedral: common questions
Is Berlin Cathedral Catholic?
No, it's Protestant, and despite the name it has never been a bishop's seat.
Can you climb the dome of Berlin Cathedral?
Yes, 270 steps lead to a walkway around the dome.
When was Berlin Cathedral built?
Between 1894 and 1905, for Emperor Wilhelm II, designed by Julius Raschdorff.