Rathaus Bern

Town Hall in Bern

Rathaus Bern
CC BY-SA 3.0 / Nemo bis

Rising gracefully along Rathausgasse, Bern Town Hall (Rathaus Bern) stands as one of the city's most important civic buildings—a seat of government and a symbol of Bernese authority for over six centuries. It houses the Grand Council and Executive Council of the Canton of Bern, as well as the City Council of Bern, making it one of the best places to visit in Bern for travelers curious about Swiss politics and architecture. Recognized as a Swiss heritage site of national significance and part of the UNESCO-listed Old City, the Rathaus remains both a functioning government building and a monument to Bern's enduring civic spirit.

Beyond its political role, the Rathaus is also a masterpiece of medieval and Baroque architecture. Its imposing sandstone façade, grand staircase, and finely detailed sculptures reflect Bern's historic wealth and influence. The building is often visited on walking tours of Bern, offering a rare chance to see where centuries of decisions have shaped not only the city but the entire canton.

History and Significance of Bern Town Hall

Bern’s first town hall, known as the Burger Hus, was built in Nydeggstalden before being replaced around 1355. The city’s growing prosperity and influence after the great fire of 1405 called for a new and more impressive seat of government. Construction of the present Rathaus began in 1406–07 under master builder Heinrich von Gengenbach, though he died soon after work commenced. Completed around 1417, the building became both a symbol of civic pride and a practical space for governance, housing courtrooms, the treasury, and the cantonal archives.

Over the centuries, the Rathaus underwent several expansions and renovations reflecting Bern’s evolution. A staircase tower and gallery wing were added between 1664 and 1666 by Abraham and David Edelstein, while 18th-century plans for a complete reconstruction by Parisian architect Jacques-Denis Antoine were abandoned due to cost. Instead, 19th- and 20th-century restorations modernized the building while preserving its medieval charm—most notably during Friedrich Salvisberg’s work (1865–68) and Martin Risch’s major restoration (1940–42), which reinstated its original Gothic appearance and improved functionality for modern government use.

Today, the building remains at the heart of Bern's democracy. The Grand Council of the Canton of Bern meets here five times a year, and the Executive Council convenes weekly. Whenever the cantonal flag flies above the façade, it signals that the parliament is in session—a living reminder of Bern's tradition of open governance.

Things to See and Do in Bern Town Hall

Even from the outside, Bern Town Hall commands attention. The three-story sandstone façade features a central staircase and loggia—an impressive entrance that reflects both civic pride and architectural symmetry. The statues above the entrance are replicas of 15th-century polychrome figures by Master Hariman of Prague, depicting allegories of justice and wisdom. The coat of arms on the front, once an imperial eagle, now proudly bears the Bernese bear. Beneath the stairs, the original wrought-iron gates by Michel Müller once secured the building's treasure chamber.

Inside, the ground floor houses a vast hall measuring 22 meters on each side and 5.5 meters high. This space originally served as both market hall and courtroom, its nine free-standing sandstone columns supporting the oak-beamed ceiling of the council chambers above. Visitors can join guided tours to see the Grand Council Chamber, where political debates still take place, as well as meeting rooms, historic archives, and the Renaissance courtyard connecting the main building to the Staatskanzlei (cantonal administration wing).

In the courtyard, don't miss the Hermes Fountain by Max Fueter, added in 1953, symbolizing trade and communication—key pillars of Bern's prosperity. Together, these details make the Rathaus one of the must-see places in Bern for anyone interested in art, architecture, or the workings of Swiss democracy.

How to Get There

Bern Town Hall is located on Rathausgasse 2, in the heart of the Old City. It's about a 10-minute walk from Bern train station, passing through Kramgasse and the Zytglogge Clock Tower en route. Train schedules and bookings can be found on Omio.

If arriving by car, park at Metro Parking Bern or City West Parking, both within a short walk of Rathausgasse.

Practical Tips on Visiting Bern Town Hall

  • Best time to visit Bern Town Hall: When the cantonal flag is flying, as sessions are in progress, or during guided tour hours.
  • Entrance fee in Euros: Free to view the exterior; small fee for guided tours.
  • Opening hours: Guided tours usually Monday to Friday; check Bern Tourism for schedules.
  • Official website: https://www.parlament.be.ch
  • How long to spend: 45–60 minutes including tour.
  • Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible with assistance via courtyard entrance.
  • Facilities: Restrooms available during guided visits.
  • Photography tip: Capture the grand staircase and symmetrical façade from across Rathausgasse.
  • Guided tours: Offered in multiple languages through Bern Tourism; booking recommended.
  • Nearby food options: Try Restaurant Lötschberg or Café Einstein for nearby dining.

Is Bern Town Hall Worth Visiting?

Yes, absolutely. Bern Town Hall is not only an architectural treasure but also the nerve center of cantonal democracy. Its Gothic-Baroque design, layered history, and ongoing political function make it one of the top attractions in Bern for travelers seeking insight into Swiss civic life. Standing here, you're quite literally at the crossroads of history, governance, and culture.

FAQs for Visiting Bern Town Hall

Can you visit inside the building?
Yes, guided tours are available when the council is not in session.

When does the parliament meet?
Five times a year for about two weeks per session—indicated by the Bernese flag flying overhead.

Is photography allowed inside?
Usually permitted during tours, except in active council chambers.

Can the rooms be rented?
Yes, when not in official use, several rooms are available for public or private events.

Is it part of a UNESCO site?
Yes, it forms part of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Old City of Bern.

Nearby Attractions to Bern Town Hall

  • Bern Minster – The city's magnificent Gothic cathedral with panoramic tower views.
  • Zytglogge Clock Tower – A medieval masterpiece with an astronomical clock and animated figures.
  • Bern Historical Museum – Switzerland's second-largest museum, home to the Einstein Museum.
  • Rosengarten – A scenic hillside park overlooking the Old City.
  • Bear Park – A riverside sanctuary for Bern's symbolic animals, near Nydegg Bridge.

The Rathaus Bern appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Bern!

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Visiting Rathaus Bern

Hours:

08:00-12:00 & 13:30-17:00 (Mon-Thur) & 08:00-12:00 (Fri)

Price:

Public tours are free

Address: Rathauspl. 2, 3011 Bern, Switzerland
Bern: 0 km

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