Bern’s Timeless Allure: A Glimpse Into Switzerland’s Capital
Climb to the top of the cathedral tower, because Bern from above is a spectacle. It arose in the Middle Ages on a peninsula of the Aare River, in the heart of Switzerland, but the design is so perfect that it could have been the river that traced an eyelet around the city, as if to embrace it. Once upon a time, its silvery course enclosed the entire center: the houses with their red roofs, the palaces, and the ancient squares. Over the centuries, the city expanded beyond the borders of the peninsula, and the river was adorned with elegant bridges. From the ground, the view is no less impressive: beyond the roofs, you can see the Bernese Alps covered with snow, as well as the heights closest to Bern, Mount Gurten and Mount Bantiger, both standing over 900 meters tall.
History of Bern: A City of Power and Independence
Capital of the Canton of Bern and capital of Switzerland, Bern has around 130,000 inhabitants and is an important economic, cultural, and tourist center, which has renewed itself over the years without damaging its most precious treasure: its medieval heart, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The history of Bern, which already had the bear as its heraldic animal, began in the Early Middle Ages.
It was founded by Duke Berthold V of Zähringen probably in 1191, but when he died in 1218 without heirs, Bern was declared a free imperial city. By the mid-fourteenth century, Bern became a member of the Swiss Confederation and, by 1481, one of the Eight Cantons. Over time, it conquered several territories, becoming the largest and most important city-state north of the Alps. In 1848, Bern was declared a federal city and the seat of the Federal Assembly of the Swiss Federal State.
Bern’s Stunning Architecture and Medieval Streets
The uneven terrain adds to Bern’s charm. Between the center of Bern, framed by the Aare, and the upper districts, there is a difference in altitude of several dozen meters. The houses seem to be arranged like an amphitheater around the river, tightly packed along paths, streets, and courtyards. The arcades of the buildings stretch for six kilometers—making Bern the city with the longest shopping promenade sheltered by arcades in Europe. These are not just modern shops: alongside shiny boutiques, you’ll find old-fashioned shops and taverns, giving Bern a blend of modernity and tradition.
The brick facades and old bastions that slope down to the water create a magical atmosphere, but the real icon of Bern is the Zytglogge, the clock tower. A symbol of Bern and its most famous attraction, the tower was part of the 13th-century walls. The clock, dating from 1530, is one of the oldest in Switzerland. Its mechanism and sculptures, including a golden rooster that crows three times, were added over time.
Bern’s Cultural Richness and Grand Buildings
Many great minds have passed through Bern. It’s said that Albert Einstein developed the theory of relativity while living here. Today, you can visit Einstein’s House as well as other museums like the Swiss Alpine Museum, the Museum of Communication, and the Historical Museum. The Paul Klee Centre, designed by Renzo Piano, houses the world’s largest collection of Klee’s works, with over 4,000 pieces on display.
Bern’s most grandiose building is the Bern Cathedral, also known as the Münster. Dedicated to Saint Vincent of Saragossa, it was begun in 1421, with its completion stretching into the late 19th century. The cathedral boasts the tallest bell tower in Switzerland, soaring 100 meters above the ground. Visitors who climb its 344 steps are rewarded with a breathtaking panorama of the city.
Festivals and the Ideal Climate for Bern’s Visitors
During the summer, the banks of the Aare transform into vibrant hubs of activity. You’ll even find people swimming in the river. The old Matt Quarter, the zoo, the botanical garden, and the Bear Pit (home to Bern’s beloved bear residents) are all located near the river.
Bern is also lively during its many festivals. The Jazz Festival runs from March to May, followed by the Dance Days in June. In July, the Gurten Festival brings international artists to Mount Gurten for a popular music event.
Summer temperatures are mild, ranging from 13°C to 23°C. Rain is frequent, especially in June, but the cooler weather makes walking through Bern’s streets pleasant. Winter brings much colder temperatures, ranging from -4°C to 2°C, perfect for a snowy holiday season.
Getting Around Bern
The best way to explore Bern is on foot or by bicycle, with many hotels offering bikes for free. The public transport system is excellent, including buses, trams, and trains. Bern-Belp Airport, located south of the city, is mainly served by charter flights, and buses or the AirportBus take visitors to the city center in about 20 minutes.