Alazani V.
Google
The Französischer Dom (French Cathedral) stands proudly on Berlin’s Gendarmenmarkt and is one of the square’s architectural highlights. Despite the name, the "Dom" refers to the tower and not to an actual cathedral in a religious sense. The church itself was originally built by the French Huguenot community in the early 18th century, who had fled persecution in France and settled in Berlin under the protection of Prussian kings.
The current tower was added later, in 1785, and today it serves as an observation platform and museum. Visitors can climb to the top for panoramic views over Gendarmenmarkt and central Berlin. The museum inside the tower is dedicated to the history of the Huguenots and their influence on Berlin’s culture and economy.
The inscription on the building — added during the 1905 renovation — reads: “To the glory of God, for the blessing of the community, under the protection of the Hohenzollerns.” Architecturally, the structure reflects neoclassical and baroque elements, with its distinctive dome and statues.
Whether you're interested in religious history, French-German relations, or simply enjoying beautiful architecture, the Französischer Dom is a must-see in Berlin