Berlin wraps Reichstag in light to honor Christo and Jeanne-Claude's legacy

The original "Wrapped Reichstag" covered the historic building with 100,000 square meters of aluminum-coated fabric. It was a global sensation, attracting more than 5 million visitors.

BERLIN, June 16 (Xinhua) -- In the midsummer nights of Berlin, the Reichstag is once again "wrapped," not in fabric this time, but in light.

From June 9 to June 20, 24 synchronized projectors illuminate the building's west facade, simulating the visual effect of massive fabric wrapping and unveiling. The light show is designed to commemorate the 30th anniversary of Bulgarian-born artist Christo and his wife Jeanne-Claude's iconic 1995 artwork, "Wrapped Reichstag."

Each evening, as the light projections created the illusion of the Reichstag being wrapped and then unwrapped, applause erupted from the large crowds gathered on the square in front of the Reichstag.

Gisela, who attended the show with her husband, was also present in 1995. "It was phenomenal," she recalls. "People came in crowds, and the atmosphere was very nice. Everyone had a gentle smile on their lips… The effect 30 years ago, I can't even describe it."

The original "Wrapped Reichstag" covered the historic building with 100,000 square meters of aluminum-coated fabric. It was a global sensation, attracting more than 5 million visitors.

Importantly, the project was entirely self-financed by Christo and Jeanne-Claude through the sale of Christo's artworks. According to the Christo and Jeanne-Claude Foundation, "The artists did not accept sponsorship of any kind."

This project initially faced strong opposition from politicians. However, supporters saw the project differently. They connected this project to the transformation of the Reichstag building into the new site of parliament for a reunified Germany.

Some said, a moment of relaxation and cheerful dealing with history would be good for the Germans, and it could change images of Germany in the international media.

According to the Bundestag, Christo and Jeanne-Claude invested over two decades in realizing the project. They made more than 60 trips to Germany, held meetings with members of the Bundestag, and launched extensive persuasion efforts.

The organizing company "30 Jahre Verhuellter Reichstag Schwenkow & Specker GmbH" told the media that the "Wrapped Reichstag" is a tribute to the impressive legacy of Christo and Jeanne-Claude, a gift for Berlin and for all people living in Berlin as well.

For many Germans, this commemoration goes beyond aesthetics. Gisela's husband, Klaus, sees the display as a symbol of unity and transformation. "It reminds us of reunification and the decision to move the capital to Berlin. That's how I understand it."

For Thorsten and his family, the installation conveys solidarity and historical reflection. "It suggests that people should come closer and look back on history," Thorsten said.

Christo was born on June 13, 1935, in Bulgaria. In 1958, Christo met his wife in Paris. Together, they pioneered "monumental environmental works of art" around the world.

The year 2025 is a landmark in the legacy of Christo and Jeanne-Claude. In addition to the 30th anniversary of "Wrapped Reichstag" in Berlin, it marks the 90th anniversary of their births, the 20th anniversary of "The Gates" in New York and the 40th anniversary of "The Pont Neuf Wrapped" in Paris. ■