Bern City Guide

Despite being the capital of Switzerland Bern is only the fifth largest city in the country. With a population of around 130,000, this charming venue is smaller than Zurich, Geneva, Basel and Lausanne. Despite the size, Bern is an important city with a remarkable design and is on the UNESCO World Heritage List.

Bern was founded in 1191 by Duke Berchtold V of Zähringen. The Duke then named the city after a bear he had killed. The bear is an important part of Bern’s image as it is featured on its emblem and a major tourist attraction in the city. A pit with two of the animals enclosed is situated near the river and is open 08:00-17:30 in the summertime and 09:00 to 16:00 in the winter. The pit is likely to be expanded in the future with the possibility of the bears being able to swim in the river.

Bern has a rich history which I documented in the Berne Historical Museum – the second largest in the country. For a political view of the city, the Federal Palace of Switzerland, known as Bundeshaus offers guided tours when the government is not in session.

Throughout the city there are small alien graffiti mosaics. These can be found on rooftops, walls and bridges and were declared in 1998 by the anonymous artist known as ‘Invader’. These pieces are shown on certain maps and tours through the city.

Near the centre of the old town is the interestingly designed Zytglogge. Built around the turn of the 13th century, this features an hourly display of early technology with a wonderful animation. Minutes before the hour, music will play along with a drumming jester. On the hour, bears and a king appear. The city’s tourist office offers guided tours of the clock tower, showing the mechanics behind the show.

The city’s international airport is slightly south of the city and offers flights to many major European cities. From the airport, a shuttle bus drives to the central train station and taxis are also available. The central train station is interestingly designed and offers connections to most major cities in Switzerland.

Although Bern is not the largest city in Switzerland, it has the importance, beauty and design expected of a European capital city as well as the cleanliness and safe atmosphere common throughout the country.