Berliner Dom

Programs for this blog post

Engineering & Innovation

Authored By:

Lisa Coe

Recently, a group of our engineering students had the pleasure of visiting the magnificent Berliner Dom (Berlin Cathedral). Standing proudly on Museum Island, the Berliner Dom is instantly recognizable by its vibrant green domes that pierce the skyline. Originally crafted from bronze, these domes have undergone a fascinating transformation over time, reacting to the elements and evolving into the striking green structures we admire today. This cathedral was completely destroyed during WWII and has been rebuilt.

The Berliner Dom is not just a marvel from the ground; students also ascended the 270 steps to the dome's outer walkway, which rewarded them  with some of the most stunning panoramic views of Berlin. This ascent offers a marvelous impression of the cathedral's exterior, providing an unparalleled perspective of the city's skyline.

Inside, the richly decorated Imperial Staircase, originally intended for the German Emperor, sets the tone for the cathedral's opulence. During our visit, the famous Sauer organ was being played. This extraordinary instrument boasts 7,269 pipes distributed over 113 stops, all controlled from a historic pneumatic console dating back to 1905.The students were captivated by the music and sounds emanating from the organ.

Our students were deeply impressed by the vastness of the cathedral, the intricate stained glass windows, and the wealth of artistic elements, including reliefs, statues, wood carvings, paintings, and gold adornments. The Berliner Dom is a true testament to architectural grandeur and historical richness, offering a profound experience that resonated deeply with everyone in our group.