Bern Town Hall

Bern Town Hall (Rathaus Bern) sits on Rathausplatz in the medieval heart of Switzerland's capital. A late Gothic building from the early 1400s, it still serves as the working seat of the canton of Bern's authorities. It is not the federal parliament: that is the Bundeshaus, a separate building elsewhere in the city.

What is the Bern Town Hall?

The Rathaus houses the Grand Council of the canton, which meets here for four sessions each year, along with the cantonal Executive Council. It forms part of the Old City of Bern, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and is listed as a Swiss heritage site of national significance.

How was it built, and what does it look like?

Construction began in 1406 and the main work finished in the following years of the first half of the 15th century. Heinrich von Gengenbach and the carpenter Hans Hetzel of Rottweil are named among those behind the structure. The building stands out for its steep roof, an exterior staircase leading to the upper floor, and a facade decorated with coats of arms. The Swiss inventory of art monuments counts it among the oldest and most important town halls in the country and calls its ground-floor hall one of the most striking secular interiors of the late Middle Ages in Switzerland.

The building was remodelled in neo-Gothic style in 1865-1868 by Friedrich Salvisberg. Much of what you see today comes from the 1940-1942 renovation led by Martin Risch.

What can you see there?

The Rathausplatz is a quiet square in the Old City lanes, and the best vantage point for the facade and staircase. The exterior can be viewed at any hour. The interior is a working chamber and office space, so access is mostly limited to events and arranged visits. The surrounding streets have the arcades and fountains typical of Bern's old town.

How do you get there?

The square lies within the Old City, a walk of roughly 15 minutes from Bern main station. Driving into the centre is not worthwhile, since many lanes are restricted. Park outside the old town and continue on foot or by public transport.

When should you visit?

The exterior is available all year. The old town is most pleasant from late spring to early autumn, and on Grand Council session days there is more activity around the building. Combine the visit with a walk through the rest of the old town.

Frequently asked questions

Is the Bern Town Hall the same as the Bundeshaus?

No. The Rathaus is the seat of the canton of Bern's authorities. The Bundeshaus is the federal parliament and government building, located elsewhere in the city.

When was the town hall built?

Work began in 1406, and the late Gothic building was completed in the early 15th century.

Can you go inside?

It is an active seat of government, so the interior is not open like a museum. Check with the City of Bern for visit options.

Is it a UNESCO site?

It is part of the Old City of Bern, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and holds national-significance heritage status.