Bern: Sights
If you're traveling to Switzerland, you definitely shouldn't miss the country's capital. Discover the multifaceted city of Bern and immerse yourself in the history of this beautiful city. The founding of the city of Bern on the peninsula dates back to the year 1191 and was established by Duke Berchtold V of Zähringen. However, a settlement already existed on the peninsula before that. Buildings such as Nydegg Castle or the Zytglogge (clock tower) already adorned the city at that time, and the Zytglogge still enriches the city to this day.
Sights
Zytglogge (Clock Tower)
The Zytglogge is one of the oldest buildings in Bern and beautifies the old town together with Bern's narrow lanes and other historic buildings. It is one of the city's most famous landmarks. Once forming a city gate, today it is above all the clock tower that delights visitors from all over the world. A spectacle you shouldn't miss is the gathering at the top of every hour in front of the Zytglogge. Watch with your own eyes the show that unfolds directly above your heads at this time. The figure play with the bear parade, the jester, the golden rooster and Chronos (the god of time) performs its splendor and delights young and old alike.
While a lively bustle reigns in front of the Zytglogge and tourists delightedly follow the lanes of the old town, time seems to stand completely still inside the tower. The remnants of the past shape the Zytglogge. Medieval, thick stone walls as well as massive wooden beams are reminiscent of bygone times. Climb the roughly 130 steps inside the clock tower and let yourself be enchanted by the breathtaking view of the old town, Bern's UNESCO World Heritage Site. If the weather is on your side and a clear sky adorns the city of Bern, you can even see as far as the peaks of the Bernese Oberland.
Rüeggisberg Monastery Ruins
The Rüeggisberg monastery ruins are considered an archaeological site and are located in the Gantrisch Nature Park. This old historic building should be familiar in particular to those interested in the Way of St. James. Pilgrims on the Way of St. James as well as those interested in culture repeatedly encounter the Rüeggisberg monastery ruins. This is not surprising, as the monastery ruins enchant visitors with a magnificent view.
Discover the Rüeggisberg monastery ruins and follow the traces of long-gone times. Listen to the history of these nearly thousand-year-old walls and explore the mysterious remnants. A place that inevitably transports you back to the time of monks, friars and choral chants.
The Gantrisch Nature Park can be reached via countless hiking routes, all of which lead through the idyllic landscape. Take advantage of these wonderful paths and follow the impressive ridge hike over the Längenberg. But it's not only the nature surrounding the monastery ruins that seems alluring. If you're interested in the history of these ruins, you should visit the museum right next door or take part in a guided tour. The museum is open daily and tells the story of the monastery. The exhibition also offers insight into the documentation of the conservation work and the thousand-year-old relief.
Käfigturm (Cage Tower)
A place that was once used to interrogate wrongdoers and imprison criminals now serves as a space for democracy, participation and exchange. After the devastating fire of 1405, the function of this building changed from a defensive tower to the city's prison. The Käfigturm served this purpose until 1897, even though it was demolished down to its foundations and rebuilt in 1641 due to its dilapidated condition. Yet even today you can still feel the remnants of this dark era in the desperate scribblings on the dungeon doors. Today, the prison belongs to the past. Instead, since 1999 the Käfigturm has been the seat of the Federal Political Forum, offering space for a wide variety of political debates.
Münster Platform
Would you like a bit of relaxation amid all the sights and tourist hustle and bustle? Then you shouldn't forget the Münster Platform! With its green spaces and shady chestnut trees, it practically invites you to enjoy a lovely picnic, play games and treat yourself to some time off. A place for young and old to come together. Also a little insider tip for a romantic outing as a couple.
In addition, Albert Einstein's domestic retreat is located right around the corner from the Münster Platform on Kramgasse. Nowadays, the apartment is open to the public and is enriched with photographs, notes and copies of documents.
The Münster Platform offers you a wonderful view of the Alps, the Aare and Bern's Matten district. For a long time, the Aare (river), on whose banks the Matten district is located, served as the primary transport route for goods.
Matten District
The Matten district is considered the oldest district in Bern and can be easily reached from the Münster Platform. Take the funicular, which takes you down from the platform to the Matten district. In the past, the Matten district was known as a shabby working-class area and was avoided by the upper class. As a result, its own language developed in this district, Matten Bernese German, which is still partly used today.
Church of the Holy Trinity
The Church of the Holy Trinity is the oldest Catholic church in the city of Bern. Bern achieved freedom of religion in 1799, making Catholic life in the city possible again after the Reformation. Especially after the adoption of the Federal Constitution and Bern's election as the federal capital in 1848, more and more Catholics found their way to the city of Bern.
The first Catholic church, St. Peter and Paul, was handed over to the Christian Catholic Church during the Kulturkampf in the 19th century. New plans were then drawn up for a Catholic church, which is known today as the Church of the Holy Trinity. It was consecrated in 1899.
Our Digital Vignette: Simple, Convenient and Digital
But before you set off on your journey to Switzerland, you should take care of purchasing a digital vignette. It is mandatory for using Swiss motorways and expressways so you can travel through the country worry-free.
Order your digital vignette now conveniently from home with us and benefit from our simple ordering process. Register your vehicle for a digital vignette to avoid possible fines. We want your journey to be as pleasant as possible thanks to our digital vignette. Travel should be easy!
The Europamaut Team Wishes You a Pleasant Journey
We wish you a pleasant journey to Switzerland and lots of enjoyment on your exploration tour through the country's impressive nature. Please inform yourself in good time about the applicable toll regulations. In addition, our route planner is available to help you plan your journey optimally and display the relevant toll products. If you have any questions, we will of course be happy to help. Feel free to contact us anytime by email.
