Paul Sacher-Anlage

Paul Sacher-Anlage is a public green space in Basel, Switzerland, sitting on the Rhine's left bank beside the old Solitude park. It carries the name of Paul Sacher, the Basel conductor and music patron, and it is best known as the address of the Museum Tinguely. The grounds work as a quiet forecourt to the museum.

Where is Paul Sacher-Anlage?

It lies in the city of Basel, in Basel-Stadt canton, on the eastern side of the nineteenth-century Solitude park, facing the river. A motorway bridge ends close by, and the Roche towers rise over the skyline and are visible from much of the grounds. Directories list Paul Sacher-Anlage as the museum's street address.

Who was Paul Sacher?

Sacher was born in Basel in 1906 and died there in 1999. He founded the Basler Kammerorchester in 1926 and, with colleagues, the Schola Cantorum Basiliensis in 1933. He commissioned and premiered around two hundred works by composers including Bartók, Hindemith and Stravinsky. The Paul Sacher Foundation, which houses composers' archives, was established in Basel in 1973.

What is there to see?

• Museum Tinguely: designed by Ticino architect Mario Botta and opened on 3 October 1996. Roche gave the building to the city and region to mark its centenary.
• The collection: devoted to the kinetic art of Jean Tinguely, built from gifts by his widow Niki de Saint Phalle and works from the Roche collection.
• Lawns, trees and river: shade on warm days, with the Rhine promenade a few minutes away on foot.
• The Roche towers: a modern backdrop that makes the spot popular for city photos.

How do you get there?

From central Basel, walk or cycle along the Rhine, for example on the Unterer Rheinweg. Komoot users rate the nearby paths very highly for walking and cycling. For public transport, check the Basler Verkehrs-Betriebe journey planner with "Museum Tinguely" as the destination.

When should you visit?

The grounds are open public space and can be visited year-round. Late spring and summer are the most pleasant, when the riverbank is busiest. Check the museum's own website for its opening hours, as they differ from the open park.

Frequently asked questions

Is Paul Sacher-Anlage a standalone attraction?

Mostly it is the green setting of the Museum Tinguely. Most visitors combine a stroll through the grounds with the museum and a walk by the Rhine.

Is entry free?

The outdoor area is public. Only the museum charges admission.

Who designed the museum?

Mario Botta, an architect from Ticino. The building was funded by Roche.

Is it suitable for children?

Yes. The open space and the nearby riverbank make an easy family stop, and Tinguely's moving sculptures inside tend to appeal to younger visitors too.