Kleine Schanze

Kleine Schanze is a historic park in Bern, Switzerland, set on a former bastion just beside the main railway station and the Bundeshaus (Federal Palace). This green terrace above the Aare valley is one of the easiest places to pause in the centre of the Swiss capital.

What is Kleine Schanze?

The site began in the early 17th century as part of the last defensive ring on the western side of the old town; sources date construction to 1622–1623. When the fortifications lost their purpose, the ground was turned into a scenic promenade in the landscape style around 1817–1818. City documents describe it as the first conversion of baroque fortifications into a garden in Switzerland. A major redesign and extension followed around 1875, and the southern part still shows mainly features created between 1874 and 1905. Today the park lies within the UNESCO-listed old town and is protected as a historic garden.

What will you see?

• The Universal Postal Union monument (Weltpostdenkmal) by French sculptor René de Saint-Marceaux, unveiled on 4 October 1909 for the Union's 25th anniversary.
• A park café with outdoor seating, popular with office workers and travellers.
• A raised bandstand, walking paths, ponds and benches with views over the valley.
• A sandstone retaining wall, restored in 2013–2014.

How do you get there?

The park is about a three-minute walk from Bern railway station, and the Bundeshaus is a few minutes away, so it fits naturally into a city-centre stroll. Entry is free and the park is open to everyone.

When should you visit?

Late spring to early autumn is best, when the café terrace is running and shade is easy to find. It makes a good stop between a train and the old town sights.

Renovation

In 2023 the city approved a credit of about CHF 4.2 million for a full renovation by Stadtgrün Bern, carried out in two stages (café and eastern part first, then the western part) and planned to run until summer 2025. Reasons included structural damage and very high drinking-water use by the pond system. Check the city's website for the current state of the grounds before you go.

Frequently asked questions

Is Kleine Schanze free to enter? Yes, the park is public and free.

How long does a visit take? A walk and photos take 30–45 minutes; with a coffee, about an hour.

Is it close to the train station? Yes, about three minutes on foot from the main station and close to the Bundeshaus.

What is in the park? The 1909 Universal Postal Union monument, a park café, a bandstand and views over the Aare valley.