Switzerland » Introduction of Bern

Bern is the capital of both Switzerland and the Canton of Bern. Bern's city center is largely medieval and has been recognised by UNESCO as a Cultural World Heritage Site. Perhaps it’s most well-known sight is the Zytglogge, an elaborate medieval clock tower with moving puppets. Berne is rich of cultural offerings for every taste. Of all Swiss cities, Bern (Berne in French) is perhaps the most immediately charming. The original city was constructed mainly of wood from the surrounding forests.

Most of Berne's residents speak German, or more particularly, Bernese German, which is a high-Alemannic dialect. The Canton of Bern has a French-speaking part.

Bern has boasted a bear pit, the Barengraben, since the 16th century, and the current Bear Pits have been in the same location since 1857, although they have been renovated extensively from 1995 to 96 to create a more suitable environment for the bears. There are plans to turn the Bear Pits into a Bear Park, which would allow the bears to swim and fish in the river freely.

The Clock Tower, built between 1191 and 1256, and the first western city gate which features an ornate astronomical calendar created in 1530 have much to do with this achievement. The Munster is an impressive example of Late Gothic architecture, towering above the old centre. It is recognised as the largest ecclesiastical building in Switzerland.