New Government Plaza

New Government Plaza

Guide   West of the Reichstag building, the new Federal Office Building is a gleaming modern structure designed by Axel Schultes, which Berliners have nicknamed the "washing machine." The central white cube houses the Chancellor's office and residence, while the two side wings consist of elongated office sections, which is why the Chancellery is not open to the public. However, you can appreciate its grandeur from the Moltkebrücke bridge or when looking from the Spreebogen park to the north.   Introduction   The decision made in 1991 to move the capital from Bonn to Berlin triggered a construction boom in the northwest area around the Brandenburg Gate, which continued throughout the 1990s. Nevertheless, the main centerpiece of Berlin’s new government plaza already has considerable historical significance: the Reichstag building, constructed in 1894, has been the seat of the German Parliament since 1999. Its most notable contemporary feature is the shining glass dome, designed by Sir Norman Foster, who also oversaw the building’s renovation. Taking the elevator up the spiral ramp to the top is a must-see highlight for all visitors to Berlin, offering a panoramic view of the city.

Berlin, Germany