What is the Siegessäule?
Q: What is the Siegessäule?
A: The Siegessäule is a famous sight in Berlin, also known as the Victory Column. It was designed to commemorate Prussia's victory in the Danish-Prussian War and later victories against Austria and France.
Q: Who designed the statue of Victoria that was added to the column?
A: The bronze sculpture of Victoria on top of the column was 8.3 meters high and weighed 35 tonnes. It was not designed by anyone specific, but rather it was added to commemorate Prussia's victories.
Q: Where is the Victory Column located?
A: The Victory Column is located at Platz der Republik, in front of the Reichstag building in Berlin. In 1938 it was moved to its present location, Großer Stern (Great Star).
Q: What are some nicknames for the statue on top of the column?
A: Some nicknames for the statue on top of the Victory Column include Goldelse ("Golden Lizzy") and "Chick on a Stick".
Q: Who created reliefs around base of monument?
A: Four Berlin sculptors created reliefs around base of monument; Moritz Schulz (1825 – 1904), Karl Keil (1838 – 1889), Alexander Calandrelli (1834-1903) and Albert Wolff (1814 – 1892).
Q: How were these reliefs taken away during World War II?
A: During World War II, these reliefs were taken away by French occupying army who did not want to remind Germans about old victories. However they were returned by French president François Mitterrand in time for Berlin's 750th anniversary celebration.
Q: When is Victory Column open to visitors?
A:The Victory Column is open every day from April-October 9am-6pm and November-March 9am-5pm
