Pariser Platz · Mitte, Berlin
Brandenburg Gate
A restored 18th-century neoclassical gate crowned by the Quadriga — twelve Doric columns and two centuries of European memory standing at the heart of Berlin.
The Gate
Two centuries at the centre of Europe.
Commissioned by King Frederick William II of Prussia and completed in 1791, the Brandenburg Gate was modelled on the Propylaea of the Athenian Acropolis. Its twelve Doric columns frame five passageways once reserved for the royal family, citizens and traders alike.
Atop the gate, the Quadriga — a chariot driven by Victoria, goddess of victory — has watched over Pariser Platz through the rise of an empire, two world wars, the division of a city, and its reunion. It remains the most recognised silhouette in Berlin.
Today, the gate stands as a free, open monument at the western edge of Pariser Platz, just steps from the Reichstag and Tiergarten — a meeting point, a backdrop, and a symbol of a city that refuses to forget.
A Living Timeline
Moments carved into the columns.
1791
Completion
Designed by Carl Gotthard Langhans, the gate was completed as a peace monument inspired by the Athenian Propylaea.
1793
The Quadriga
Johann Gottfried Schadow’s sculpture of Victoria driving a four-horse chariot was added two years after the gate itself.
1961–89
Cold War Divide
For nearly three decades the gate stood inside the Berlin Wall’s no-man’s land — closed, isolated, and broadcast to the world.
1989
Reunification
On December 22 the gate reopened, becoming the defining image of a reunified Germany and a free Europe.
Through the lens
Photographs.
Visitor photography from Pariser Platz — day, night, summer, snow.
Voices from the gate
What visitors say.
“The Brandenburg Gate is a must-see. I recommend taking a walk to the gate — along the way you can see many beautiful buildings and statues.”
Wojciech Sliwinski
a week ago
“The architecture is beautiful and the atmosphere is lively, with people from all over the world taking photos and enjoying the view.”
Stefan Hoffmann
a week ago
“It is a must-see for every tourist and a popular spot for young and old.”
Kerstin Merly
a week ago
“Look and think about your freedom.”
Svend Andersen
a week ago
“A nice iconic place to visit in Berlin.”
Filipe Madureira
a week ago
“Favourite place in Berlin.”
Lukasz Szewczuk
a week ago
Plan your visit
Open to all, at all hours.
Address
Pariser Platz
10117 Berlin
Germany
Mitte district
Hours
Open 24 hours
The gate is a free public monument and is accessible day and night. Pariser Platz is at its quietest around sunrise.
Find it