Located on the Old Market Square in Potsdam, Germany, next to St. Nicholas' Church, the Potsdam City Palace (Potsdamer Stadtschloss) is a historic landmark with a remarkable past. Originally built as a Baroque palace between 1662 and 1669, it served as the winter residence for Brandenburg electors, Prussian kings, and German emperors.
Rebuilt from 1744 to 1752 by Georg Wenzeslaus von Knobelsdorff for Friedrich II, it stood as a supreme example of Frederician Rococo. Although 83 percent of its structure survived heavy World War II bombing in 1945, the East German communist regime demolished the ruins in 1960, leaving only the former stables. Following decades of political debate, referendums, and significant private donations—including major contributions for the rebuilt Fortuna Gate and a generous €20 million gift from software mogul Hasso Plattner—the palace was reconstructed and completed in late 2013.
Today, when you visit this impressive site, you will see meticulously reconstructed historic facades, including a copper roof, alongside a fully modern interior that houses the parliament of the federal state of Brandenburg. Don't miss the witty wall inscription reading "Ceci n'est pas un château" during your visit to this iconic location.
What to see at City Palace
- Reconstructed historic facades topped with a copper clad roof
- The restored Fortuna Gate, completed in October 2002
- Wall inscription stating "Ceci n'est pas un château"
- Former palace stables nearby, now housing the Potsdam Museum of Film
Visiting tips
Be sure to look for the intriguing wall inscription "Ceci n'est pas un château" as you walk around the palace exterior.
How long: 1-2 hours · Best time: Morning
How to get there & what’s nearby
City Palace is easy to reach on Potsdam’s public transport, and pairs naturally with Sanssouci Palace and Cecilienhof. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Potsdam travel guide.
See the full Potsdam travel guide for where to stay, the best time to visit and the top things to do.