P00534
Switzerland, Bern
Welcome to the capital of Switzerland! We will take you on an exploration of the medieval city center of Bern, home to Switzerland’s tallest cathedral as well as other churches, bridges and a large collection of Renaissance fountains. Get a glimpse of the 15th-century arcades and 16th-century fountains, which were restored in the 18th century but maintained its original character. Beautiful, clean and not too busy, our tour along the city of bears will also take you from the Bear Pit, where the name givers of the city still live next to the Nydeggbrücke and the River Aar . With a bit of luck, you will get a glimpse of a family of bears! See the “luganock Quarter” and discover the origins of such a dark name. See the Reformed Nydeggkirche, or “Lower corner” church, built where the city was founded in 1191, and learn the legend of Duke Berchtold of Zähringen and the bear that named this city. See Münsterplatz, the square in front of the Cathedral that is a UNESCO Cultural World Heritage Site, together with the gothic Berner Münster (Cathedral of Bern), the tallest cathedral in Switzerland. Pass the curious Zähringerbrunnen fountain, another UNESCO World Heritage Site of the 16th century, celebrating the founders of Bern. Be ready for the 13th-century Zytglogge clock tower, used for many purposes along the ages, like guard tower, prison, clock tower, and today one of Bern’s most recognizable symbols, due to its 15th-century astronomical clock. Have a look at the gruesome Kindlifresserbrunnen, which translates to “Child Eater Fountain” or “Ogre Fountain”, representing a folklore figure that scares disobedient children. See the medieval tower prison of Käfigturm and find out it’s curious history. Meet the Parliament and Seat of Governmentof Switzerland, the Bundeshaus. All this in a small but very multifaceted city that has something to reveal around every corner.
