Welcome to the Brandenburg Gate, an iconic 18th-century neoclassical landmark standing in Berlin’s Mitte district at the junction of Unter den Linden and Ebertstraße. Commissioned by King Frederick William II of Prussia and designed by architect Carl Gotthard Langhans, this majestic monument was constructed between 1788 and 1791. As you admire its classical design inspired by Athens' Propylaea, you will see twelve fluted Doric columns forming five passageways, flanked by L-shaped wings once used as custom houses.
Look up to behold the famous bronze quadriga sculpture by Johann Gottfried Schadow, depicting the goddess Victoria driving a four-horse chariot with an Iron Cross standard facing into the city center. The structure also features classicizing reliefs depicting the Labours of Hercules and metopes showcasing scenes from Greek mythology, including centaurs fighting men. Framing Pariser Platz to the east and opening onto Platz des 18.
März to the west—just steps from the Reichstag building and Tiergarten park—the gate carries deep historical significance. Having survived wartime damage and decades of Cold War division when the Berlin Wall blocked its pathways, today it serves as a powerful symbol of German history, European unity, and enduring peace.
What to see at Brandenburg Gate
- Twelve fluted Doric columns creating five central passageways
- Johann Gottfried Schadow's iconic bronze quadriga crowning the monument
- Classicizing reliefs illustrating the Labours of Hercules and Greek mythology metopes
- L-shaped side wings featuring open stoas and historic gatehouse structures
- Historic position at Pariser Platz, linking Unter den Linden to Tiergarten
Visiting tips
Take time to examine the intricate classical reliefs on the gate, including the figure of Victoria on her four-horse chariot facing east into the city center.
How long: 1 hour · Best time: Daytime
How to get there & what’s nearby
Brandenburg Gate is easy to reach on Berlin’s public transport. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Berlin travel guide.
See the full Berlin travel guide for where to stay, the best time to visit and the top things to do.