The Berliner Schloss (Berlin Palace) was the main residence of the Electors of Brandenburg from the House of Hohenzollern, who rose to Prussian kings in 1701 and German emperors in 1871. Begun in 1443 the palace was rebuilt on behalf of Frederick I between 1698 and 1713 and is considered a masterpiece of European Baroque. It was one of the largest buildings in Berlin. Its dimensions, and its 70-meter-high dome, added in the 19th century, have always shaped the cityscape.

The heavily damaged building partially burned down at the end of the WWII in 1945 and was blown up in the GDR in 1950/51 despite international protests to make room for a parade ground, which was later built on the Spree side by the "Palace of the Republic".

After the "Palace of the Republic" was demolished after the reunification. From 2013 to 2020, its exterior was largely reconstructed following a resolution of the German Bundestag. This reconstruction was disputed. The new building serves as an exhibition and event venue for the Humboldt Forum.