Bern Minster
Overview
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Hint
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Intro
The Bern Cathedral is a masterpiece of Gothic architecture in the middle of Bern's old town. Climb the highest church tower in Switzerland and admire the architecture and the view of the rooftops of Bern, the Aare and the Alps.
The Bern Minster at a glance
The foundation stone for the Bern Cathedral was laid in 1421. With a tower height of 100 metres, it is the tallest church in Switzerland. The tower can be climbed up to 64 meters. The main portal shows the Last Judgement with over 200 figures. In the bell rooms hang 7 bells from 7 centuries, including the largest bell in Switzerland.
What to experience
Climb the Cathedral Tower (30-45 minutes)
You climb 344 steps to the viewing platform at 64 meters. You can take a breather on the first platform at a height of 46 meters or by visiting the mighty bells. Once at the top, you can look over the rooftops of the old town, the Aare and the snow-covered Alpine peaks of the Bernese Oberland.
- Good to know: Two stair towers ensure safe ascent and descent.
Experience the bells up close (1–1.5 hours)
On a bell tour, you will visit the bell rooms and get to know the heaviest ringing in Switzerland. On holidays such as Christmas Eve or New Year's Eve, you can watch the full ringing of the bells in the belfry up close. Hearing protection is recommended.
- Good to know: Bell tours can be booked at the information point.
- Tip: The full ringing will take place on New Year's Eve, Christmas Eve and Pentecost Saturday at 3 p.m.
Explore the cathedral and the cathedral platform (30-60 minutes)
Inside, admire the ornate stained glass windows and Renaissance choir stalls. At the main portal, you will see over 200 stone figures of the Last Judgement. On the cathedral platform next door, you can have a coffee when the weather is nice and watch the people of Bern play boules.
- Good to know: Admission to the cathedral is free.
- Tip: The tour lasts 35 minutes – an audio guide is available in 5 languages.
General information
| Season |
All year
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|---|---|
| Accessibility |
Not accessible
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Discover the surroundings
Address
Berner Münster
Münsterplatz 1
Infostelle
3011
Bern
Switzerland
Phone
+41 (0)31 312 04 62
infostelle@bernermuenster.ch
bernermuenster.ch
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