Bern, Switzerland

We spend a day in Bern, the capital of Switzerland, on our 3 week trip around Europe. We just had a few hours in the city but were able to visit Old City which became UNESCO Cultural World Heritage Site since 1983 due to the compact and generally intact medieval core and is an excellent example of incorporating the modern world into a medieval city.

Few facts about Bern:

Just over 130,00 people live in Bern, making it Switzerland’s fourth-largest city. 

At an altitude of 542 metres above sea level, Bern is the third highest European capital city.

The Aare River wraps around the Old City of Bern.

Around Old City

The layout of Old City has remained largely unchanged since the early 15th century.

National Bank

Bundeshaus -The Swiss House of Parliaments is a representative building dominating the Square. Constructed by the end of 19th century. 

Parliament building

The Bern Minster is a Swiss Reformed cathedral, built in the Gothic style. Its construction started in 1421. Its tower, with a height of 100.6 m (330 ft), was only completed in 1893. It is the tallest cathedral in Switzerland.

Berne Cathedral

The Church of the Holy Ghost is a Swiss Reformed Church. It is one of largest Swiss Reformed churches in Switzerland.

The Church of Holy Christ 

The church St. Peter und Paul in the old city of Bern was built 1858-1864 and renovated in 1998. It is considered a significant example of the neo-gothic style in Switzerland. 

Church of St. Peter and Paul

Zytglogge - The Clock Tower near the center of the old town built around 13th century. Every hour there is a stunning display of early animatronic technology. A few minutes before the hour, it begins with a little song and some drumming by a jester on top. On the hour, bears and an old bearded king get into the act.  The clock tells time, as well as the month, day, sign of the zodiac and phase of the moon. 

Besides the medieval houses, another not-to-missed structure is the colorfully painted water fountains located sparsely in the old town. All of the fountains have drinking water. 

Other resources:

Lonely Planet Switzerland (Travel Guide)