Voltamatte

Voltamatte in Basel is a neighbourhood park built around a broad lawn in the city's west, in the St. Johann district close to the French border. Locals use it for play, sport and meeting friends, which makes it a good place to see everyday Basel away from the main sights.

What is this place?

The park is public green space looked after by Basel's municipal gardening department, the Stadtgärtnerei. Its current layout dates from a 2011–2012 redesign tied to the end of construction on the Nordtangente road link. It was the final piece of that project: the site was turned back into green space and opened to residents in September 2012. Fifty-two oak trees went in that spring and are slowly growing into a shady canopy.

What will you see?

• A large open lawn – the heart of the park, used for ball games and picnics.
• A play landscape – water and sand zones aimed mainly at smaller children.
• The Robi adventure playground – on this spot since 1957 and rebuilt in 2011–2012 (address: Voltaplatz 4).
• A polar bear sculpture – a 1947 work by Adolf Weisskopf and one of the park's best-known features.
• Seating and a public toilet – practical for a longer stay with children.

Is there any history here?

Yes. According to the city, the area belonged to a large late Celtic settlement between roughly 150 and 80 BC. The park is not a heritage sight in itself, but it sits on ground with a very long record of habitation.

Who is it for?

Families with children get the most out of Voltamatte, especially as a break from museums and the old town. It also fits into a walk through St. Johann, combined with a visit to the nearby St. Johanns-Park by the Rhine.

When should you visit?

Late spring, summer and early autumn are best, when the lawn and water play area are in full use and the oaks provide shade. Weekends and warm afternoons are the busiest.

Frequently asked questions

Is entry to Voltamatte free? Yes. It is a public city park with no admission charge.

Is there something for young children? Yes. The water-and-sand play landscape is designed mostly for smaller kids, and the Robi playground is right next to it.

Where is the park? In western Basel, in the St. Johann district around Voltaplatz, not far from the French border.

Are there toilets? Yes, the park has a public toilet along with benches and other seating.