In a fuel cell assembly typically with a plurality of cells each including an electrolyte layer (2), a pair of gas diffusion electrode layers (3, 4), and a pair of flow distribution plates (5), the electrolyte layer (2) comprises a frame (21) and electrolyte (22) retained in the frame; and the flow distribution plates and frames are made of materials having similar thermal expansion properties so that the generation of thermal stress between the frames of the electrolyte layers and the corresponding flow distribution plates can be avoided, and the durability of the various components can be ensured. By joining each flow distribution plate with the corresponding frame by anodic bonding or using a bonding agent along a periphery thereof, the need for a sealing arrangement such as a gasket or a clamping arrangement can be eliminated, and this contributes to the compact design of the assembly.