Photo Tour: Landmarks of Germany Quiz

Cologne Cathedral stands in Cologne, Germany, as a major example of Gothic architecture. Construction began in 1248 and stretched over several centuries before finally being completed in 1880. One of the cathedral's most important relics is the Shrine of the Three Kings, believed to hold the remains of the biblical Magi. These relics were taken by Frederick Barbarossa and later placed in the cathedral, which helped turn it into a major pilgrimage destination during the Middle Ages.

The building did not escape damage during World War II. Allied bombing raids caused significant destruction, though the core structure survived. Restoration began soon after the war ended, and the cathedral has since been carefully preserved. Today, it is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for both its architecture and cultural importance.

Work on the Reichstag started in 1884 and wrapped up in 1894. Its design follows a Neo-Renaissance style, drawing heavily from Italian Renaissance influences. The building became the seat of the German Empire's parliament after the unification of Germany in 1871. Not long before World War II, it suffered severe damage from a fire set just four weeks after Adolf Hitler became chancellor. He used the incident to claim that communists were attempting to overthrow the government.

After the war, the structure remained in ruins during the Cold War division of Germany. It was only after reunification in 1990 that major restoration took place. The addition of a glass dome symbolized transparency and democratic ideals. Today, the Reichstag houses the German Bundestag and reflects both Germany's complicated past and its modern political identity.

Neuschwanstein Castle rises in Bavaria as a 19th-century example of Romantic architecture. Construction began in 1869 under King Ludwig II, who intended it as a tribute to the operas of Richard Wagner. The king also used it as a private retreat. Architects Christian Jank and Eduard Riedel designed the structure, drawing on medieval castle forms and themes from Wagner's works.

During World War II, the castle was used to store art looted from France by the Nazis, which later became a source of controversy. Today, it draws millions of visitors each year, largely because of its fairytale-like appearance and dramatic mountain setting.

At the center of Munich lies Marienplatz, a square that dates back to the 12th century. Its design reflects a mix of architectural styles, including Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque influences. In medieval times, it served as the city's main marketplace and a hub for civic life.

One of its best-known features is the Glockenspiel on the New Town Hall. At certain times each day, it reenacts historical scenes and a jousting tournament. Another landmark in the square is Mary's Column, which was erected in the 17th century as a symbol of devotion to the Virgin Mary.

The Berlin TV Tower, or Fernsehturm, was built between 1965 and 1969. Its design reflects East German modernist architecture, with a tall cylindrical structure topped by a spherical observation deck. During the Cold War, it stood as a symbol of Communist power in East Berlin and was meant to showcase the strength of East German technology.

Today, the tower serves a very different purpose. Visitors can head up to the observation deck for sweeping views of the city, and the revolving restaurant offers a unique dining experience. There is also an interesting visual effect known as the "Pope's Revenge," where sunlight reflects off the tower in the shape of a Greek cross. This was especially ironic given the government's earlier removal of crosses from churches.

Built in 1851, the Bastei Bridge stretches across towering rock formations in Saxon Switzerland National Park. These formations, shaped by centuries of erosion, rise high above the Elbe River and create a dramatic backdrop. The bridge itself connects a rocky outcrop that would otherwise be difficult to reach.

Getting there is part of the experience. Visitors must navigate winding paths and steep steps, which adds a sense of adventure. The landscape has long inspired artists, including Caspar David Friedrich, who captured the cliffs in his Romantic paintings.

Heidelberg Castle overlooks the city of Heidelberg and dates back to the 13th century. Its design blends Gothic and Renaissance elements, though much of what remains today is in ruins. The castle suffered repeated damage during wars, with the Thirty Years War causing especially severe destruction.

Despite its condition, the site has drawn many notable visitors. The writer Victor Hugo admired its scale and presence, while Martin Luther once visited and was entertained by Wolfgang of the Palatinate, a member of the House of Wittelsbach.

The Brandenburg Gate in Berlin was constructed between 1788 and 1791 under King Frederick William II of Prussia. Designed in the Neoclassical style, it features six Doric columns and a chariot sculpture crowning the structure. The gate originally symbolized peace and unity after Prussian military campaigns.

Its meaning has shifted over time. Napoleon's forces seized it in 1806 and returned it in 1814 after his defeat. Later, it became associated with German nationalism and unity. During the Nazi era, it was used for propaganda, often draped with swastika flags. After World War II, it stood between East and West Berlin, becoming a symbol of division. Since reunification in 1990, it has come to represent peace, unity, and hope for a united Europe.

Completed in 2015, the Geierlay suspension bridge stretches across the Hunsruck region near Morsdorf. Designed to blend with its surroundings, the bridge extends 360 meters and hangs 100 meters above the Morsdorfer Bach below.

Many visitors come for the experience of crossing it, though around 20% decide against it once they arrive. Access to the bridge was free for many years, though a temporary fee was introduced at the start of the coronavirus pandemic. That fee has since been removed, and crossing it is once again free.

Berlin Cathedral was built between 1894 and 1905 and follows a neo-Renaissance style. Its large dome, detailed facade, and decorative elements give it a commanding presence. The cathedral served as the court church of the Hohenzollern family and became their burial site.

It also played a key role in German Protestantism, serving as an important religious center. During World War II, bombing caused major damage, including the destruction of its dome. Post-war restoration efforts eventually brought the cathedral back to its earlier condition.

The Römer complex in Frankfurt's Römerberg plaza dates back to the 14th century. Originally a guildhall, it later became the city hall. The complex includes three main sections: the Old Town Hall, the New Town Hall, and the Imperial Hall.

World War II brought heavy destruction to the plaza and its buildings, but reconstruction efforts afterward carefully restored them. Today, the area is a popular destination for tourists.

Eltz Castle has stood since the 12th century and represents a mix of Romanesque, Gothic, and Renaissance styles. Unlike many other castles, it has remained largely intact over the centuries. Even its only major attack, involving early cannons known as pot-de-fer, caused minimal damage.

The castle has stayed in the hands of the Eltz family throughout its history, and they still live there today. Careful preservation has kept it in excellent condition, allowing visitors to experience it much as it once was. Its importance is reflected in the fact that it appeared on Germany's 500-deutschmark banknote in the late 20th century.