French-Cathedral-Berlin
The French Cathedral or Französischer Dom in German is not actually a church, but rather a tower topped with a dome that sits upon the French church Friedrichstadtkirche. It is still referred to as the French Cathedral in English as dom is German for cathedral.
It is best understood in context of its location opposite the German Cathedral in Gendarmenmarkt Square. These two opposing domed towers, situated on top of their respective churches, make this one of the most aesthetically beautiful squares in all Berlin.
The French church, or French Friedrichstadtkirche, was completed in 1705, to serve French Protestant refuges under the Edict of Potsdam.
Both the German and the French church had no towers when they were first built, but in 1785, Friedrich II commissioned the design and construction of the two towers. They served no function relevant to the churches, but were intended purely as an aesthetic addition to add splendor to the square. Their interiors are completely separate from the churches they sit upon.
The churches and towers were substantially destroyed during the bombing raids of the Second World War. For many decades they lay in ruin, but in 1981 reconstruction began.
The French tower, complete with viewing balustrade and carillon, opened to the public in 1987.
Due to major restorations the French Cathedral is once again closed to the public, but this type of work is necessary to maintain the splendor of these magnificent structures.
When it reopens, visitors will once again be able to climb the 284 steps to the viewing balustrade. From there you can can enjoy magnificent views of Gendarmenmarkt and the beyond.
Facts For Your Visit
Fee: NoFrench Cathedral Berlin Hours:
Opening hours may differ on holidays
- Monday: Closed
- Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Thursday: 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Friday: 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Saturday: 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Sunday: 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Address: Gendarmenmarkt 7, 10117 Berlin, Germany
Phone: 030 52680210
Official Website: French Cathedral Berlin
French Cathedral Berlin Reviews
Rated out of 5
Amazing view of the Gerdarmenmarkt and the city! I recommend to come during the sunset. With the colours must be beautiful. And have in mind that they don’t have an elevator. There is a lot of steps to go up and down.
Tatiana Kruchowski - a week ago
It was nice to visit but I expected the collection to be more interesting. You can also climb up the stairs to have a view from the indor rooftop but for me the climb was not worh the view, sadly.
Doğa - 3 months ago
Französischer Dom, located in Berlin’s stunning Gendarmenmarkt square, is a must-see attraction for architecture and history enthusiasts. The domed tower adds elegance to the square and houses the Huguenot Museum, which offers fascinating insights into the history of French Protestants in Berlin. Visitors can climb 284 steps to the viewing balustrade for breathtaking views of the square and surrounding areas. The square itself is home to other iconic buildings like the Konzerthaus and Deutscher Dom, making it one of Berlin’s most beautiful landmarks. Whether you’re exploring its historical significance or enjoying a concert at the Französische Friedrichstadtkirche, this site is sure to leave a lasting impression.
How to Get There
Gendarmenmarkt is conveniently accessible via public transportation:
• Subway (U-Bahn): The closest stations are Stadtmitte (served by U2 and U6) and Hausvogteiplatz (U2), both within a 5-minute walk.
• Bus: Lines such as 100, 147, 200, M48, and M85 stop nearby. The closest bus stops are Französische Str. and Jerusalemer Str., both about a 4-minute walk away.
• Train (S-Bahn): Friedrichstraße station connects to regional trains (RE3, S1, S25, S9) and is a short distance from the square.
For those arriving from Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER), take the Airport Express or regional trains to Friedrichstraße station and transfer to local transit options. Alternatively, walking or biking through the Mitte district provides scenic routes leading to Gendarmenmarkt.
shay yakobi - a week ago
The church around which it is being renovated and the ongoing works do not give an impression of the true value of this building. One of the most famous and important religious buildings in the city.
Sveto Rakovic - 3 months ago
Way better than the German one across the square. It is very worth climbing to the top! It is not difficult, the stairs are wide so you can make breaks if you need to.
Zoran Lazić - 6 months ago
Directions
How to get to French Cathedral Berlin by U-Bahn, S-Bahn or Tram
Nearest U-Bahn, S-Bahn or Tram Line(s): U6, U2
Nearest U-Bahn, S-Bahn or Tram Station(s): U Französische Str. , U-Bhf Hausvogteiplatz
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Photo Credit: claudia.schillinger - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: corno.fulgur75 - cc license via Flickr
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