Culture and History Intermingle in the Gendarmenmarkt Quarter

History of the Square

Built in the 17th century by Johann Arnold Nering, it was originally called Linden-Markt before being renamed Friedrichstädtischer Markt and then Neuer Markt. The name Gendarmenmarkt is owing to its housing military horses from 1736 to 1782. A closer look reveals that the title 'Gendarmenmarkt' originates from the French "Gens d'arms", which was a Prussian regiment comprising the expelled Protestant soldiers of France, the Huguenots. Ravaged by World War II, it was renamed "Platz der Akademie" in 1950 but regained the name Gendarmenmarkt in 1991 in a worthy tribute to the horses and their masters who had previously served the country.

Important Buildings in the Square

The two cathedrals stand as twin comrades upon Gendarmenmarkt. The French Cathedral (Französischer Dom) was erected by the persecuted Huguenot community between 1701 and 1705. Based on the destroyed Huguenot church in Charenton-Saint-Maurice, France, this one impresses with its tower and porticoes, designed by Carl von Gontard. While there, be sure to visit the viewing platform before making a stop at the Huguenot museum, where you can learn about the history of the French exiles.
Equally deserving of a visit is the German Cathedral (Deutscher Dom), erected in 1708 by Giovanni Simonetti, although it was Carl von Gontard who built the attractive domed tower.
The third and most recent jewel in Gendarmenmarkt's crown is the Konzerthaus Berlin, built in 1821. If Western classical music appeals to your sensibilities, be sure to catch a symphony here.

Christmas Market

If you happen to be in town in the run-up to Christmas, try and catch Gendarmenmarkt's famed Christmas Market, especially enjoyable by night. Open-air concerts, buskers, carol singers and numerous food and gift stalls await, but do not forget to bring a pullover and camera!

In and Around the Square

A good selection of cafes and bars line the square, with an emphasis on traditional fare.
Gendarmenmarkt is also within walking distance from the River Spree, Museum Island and Unter den Linden.

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Author: David Rickerson-Seidel

Guest Relations Manager at NH Collection Berlin Mitte Friedrichstrasse

My name is David Rickerson-Seidel and I have been part of the NH Hotel Group since September 2015 when the first NH Collection Hotel opened in Germany. After 16 years of hotel experience, I was offered a great chance to meet people from all over the world and each time I was able to learn from them – this is one of the reason why I love my position as a Guest Relation Manager. My daily task is to fulfil our guest’s needs before they actually asking for it. With my passion for my job it is always a great pleasure to see our guests happy and smiling before they leave the hotel and I know that we have done the job right. I always say that the only thing that a guest can’t buy and book in advance is our smiling receptionist with a warm welcoming, the friendly breakfast host who would like to know if you slept well, and our elusive room maid, who is preparing the room so that it feels like home – our employees make the difference – this is why you are not checking into your room at a terminal. Whatever you need – we are always there for you.