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The picture shows the French church in Bern, with its pointed roof and green roof tower. A crossroads can be seen in the foreground and vehicles and road signs are visible.
The picture shows the interior of the French church in Bern with its Gothic architecture. You can see long rows of wooden benches leading up to an illuminated altar area with a large cross. Above this is an impressive organ on a gallery, and the walls are decorated with decorative paintings and patterns. The overall picture radiates a solemn and historic atmosphere.
The photo shows the chancel of the French church in Bern with its colourful Gothic arches and columns. In the centre is a simple cross framed by a large arch. The walls are frescoed and a bouquet of flowers adorns the altar. In the foreground is a music stand, and to the right is a small table and chair, perhaps for readings or leading the liturgy.

The French Church

Today, the French Church in Bern is much more than just a place of prayer and refuge. Once known as the “preachers’ church” or the “Latin church”, the French Church is now the oldest sacred building in the capital and attracts fans of architecture, art and culture alike.

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The picture shows the French church in Bern, with its pointed roof and green roof tower. A crossroads can be seen in the foreground and vehicles and road signs are visible.
Exterior view of the French Church in Bern
© Französische Kirche keine Weitergabe

The place of worship was built in the 13th century by the local Dominicans, who were also known as “preachers”, hence the name “preachers’ church”. From 1623 onward it served the Protestant community and was home to French church services. Later, the church became known as a safe haven for the Huguenots.

Art and architecture

The picture shows the interior of the French church in Bern with its Gothic architecture. You can see long rows of wooden benches leading up to an illuminated altar area with a large cross. Above this is an impressive organ on a gallery, and the walls are decorated with decorative paintings and patterns. The overall picture radiates a solemn and historic atmosphere.
Interior view of the French Church in Bern
© Französische Kirche keine Weitergabe

Located just a stone’s throw away from the Kornhaus granary and Bern’s Lower Old Town, the French Church’s architectural and artistic elements are a monument to the past. Gothic pillars with high, narrow windows are combined with the austerity of the Reformation. The wooden ceiling panels in the central nave are complemented by meticulously painted wall murals around the triumphal arches. Art lovers can feast their eyes on the Nelkenmeister frescoes and test their eyesight searching for the two hidden “Nägeli”.

An ornate organ adorns the wall on the rood screen above the altar. Its unmistakable tones (the organ is one of the best in the city), along with the choral concerts and musical productions of major works, regularly flood the church’s interior with imposing, harmonious and polyphonic melodies. The French Church’s splendid acoustics ensure that concerts are truly memorable experiences.

Location

The French Church
Zeughausgasse 8
3011 Bern

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