Why did Germany’s parliament move to the Reichstag building in 1999?

Following the reunification of Germany in 1990, the newly reunified state sought to restore Berlin as its official capital and political hub. In 1991, the Bundestag voted to transfer the seat of government from Bonn to Berlin, designating the Reichstag as its permanent home.12

The move was part of a broader effort to reestablish the city's role as the center of German democracy following the end of the 45-year occupation and the division of the city. To prepare the building for its return to legislative service, it underwent extensive renovation directed by architect Sir Norman Foster, which included the construction of a new glass dome to symbolize transparency and democratic commitment. The Bundestag officially opened its inaugural session in the renovated Reichstag on September 7, 1999.213