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Equestrian Statue of King Friedrich II

Witness the grandeur of Prussian history at the equestrian statue of King Friedrich II, an iconic landmark on Berlin's Unter den Linden, embodying the spirit of 'Der Alte Fritz'.

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Dominating Unter den Linden, Berlin's grand boulevard, stands the equestrian statue of King Friedrich II of Prussia, affectionately known as 'Der Alte Fritz.' Created by Christian Daniel Rauch and unveiled in 1851, this bronze masterpiece commemorates the Prussian king's military victories, reorganization of the army, and patronage of the arts and Enlightenment. The monument portrays Frederick the Great in military uniform atop his horse, Conde, surrounded by depictions of notable figures from his reign. Encased in concrete during World War II for protection, the statue was later removed and eventually returned to its original location, becoming a symbol of Berlin's rich history and Prussian heritage. Today, it remains a popular tourist attraction and a testament to the enduring legacy of Frederick the Great.

A brief summary to Equestrian statue of King Friedrich II. of Prussia

  • Unter den Linden 9, Berlin, Mitte, 10117, DE

Local tips

  • Take a stroll along Unter den Linden to fully appreciate the statue's prominent location and the surrounding historical buildings.
  • Visit the statue during different times of the day to experience how the light enhances its details and the surrounding atmosphere.
  • Combine your visit with a tour of Museum Island, located nearby, to delve deeper into Berlin's cultural heritage.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    The equestrian statue is easily accessible via public transport. Take the U5 or U6 to the 'Unter den Linden' station, or the S-Bahn to 'Brandenburger Tor' or 'Friedrichstrasse' stations. Several bus lines also stop nearby, including routes 100, 147, 245, and 300. A single fare for public transport within Berlin (Zone A) is approximately €3.20.

  • Walking

    If you are already on Unter den Linden or in the vicinity of the Brandenburg Gate, the statue is a short walk eastward. It's located between the Altes Palais and Humboldt University. Walking allows you to fully appreciate the architecture and atmosphere of this historic boulevard.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    A taxi or ride-share from a central location in Berlin, such as Alexanderplatz, will cost approximately €10-€15 and take around 5-10 minutes, depending on traffic. Be sure to specify 'Unter den Linden' as your destination.

  • Driving

    Parking near Unter den Linden can be challenging and expensive. The Q-Park Unter den Linden/Staatsoper garage on Bebelplatz offers covered parking with direct access to the Staatsoper. Hourly rates start at approximately €4, with a daily maximum of €45. A 'theatre tariff' of €10 is available from 5:30 PM to 11:30 PM if you pay at the machine on site. Consider using public transport instead due to limited and costly parking options.

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Discover more about Equestrian statue of King Friedrich II. of Prussia

The equestrian statue of King Friedrich II, an iconic landmark on Berlin's Unter den Linden boulevard, offers a glimpse into Prussia's rich history and the legacy of one of its most influential rulers. Known affectionately as 'Der Alte Fritz' (Old Fritz) by Berliners, Frederick the Great reigned from 1740 to 1786, transforming Prussia into a major European power through military prowess and enlightened reforms. The statue, a masterpiece of the Berlin school of sculpture, was commissioned by King Frederick William III and created by Christian Daniel Rauch between 1839 and 1851. Its unveiling on May 31, 1851, coincided with a surge of Prussian and German nationalism, solidifying Frederick's image as a national hero. The monument stands 13.5 meters (44 feet) tall, with the equestrian statue itself reaching 5.66 meters (18.6 feet). Frederick is depicted in military uniform, adorned with an ermine-trimmed cloak and his signature bicorne hat, holding the reins in his left hand and a walking stick in his right. The statue's base is equally impressive, featuring reliefs of the four cardinal virtues and scenes from Frederick's life. Bronze plaques list the names of 74 notable men from his reign, including military leaders, philosophers, mathematicians, poets, statesmen, and engineers, all of whom contributed to Prussia's rise to prominence in the 18th century. The monument's design reflects a transition from neoclassicism to realism, capturing the spirit of the era and the essence of Frederick's character. Throughout its history, the statue has faced numerous challenges. During World War II, it was encased in concrete to protect it from damage. In 1950, the East Berlin Magistrat decided to relocate the statue to the park at the palace of Sanssouci in Potsdam. However, it was eventually returned to its original location on Unter den Linden in 1980, following a shift in West Germany's attitude towards Prussian heritage. The statue underwent thorough restoration in 2001, ensuring its preservation for future generations. Today, the equestrian statue of King Friedrich II stands as a symbol of Berlin's resilience and its complex relationship with its past. It attracts visitors from around the world who come to admire its artistic merit and learn about the life and times of Frederick the Great. The statue serves as a reminder of Prussia's significant role in European history and the enduring legacy of its 'enlightened' monarch. Visiting the statue offers a unique opportunity to reflect on the forces that shaped modern Germany. Unter den Linden, the grand boulevard on which it stands, provides a fitting backdrop for this historical monument. Lined with embassies, shops, cafes, and other landmarks, the boulevard itself is a testament to Berlin's vibrant culture and its status as a global capital. A stroll along Unter den Linden, culminating in a visit to the equestrian statue of King Friedrich II, is an essential experience for anyone seeking to understand Berlin's past and present.

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