The city that always bears a smile on its face is the saying that goes well with Berne. The people of the city are relaxed and easy going while this capital city is the seat of governmental duties for the country of Switzerland.

Celebrities and the city:

Casanova is said to have spoiled himself silly in the baths of Berne. Many famous people have indulged in this elegant city. Lenin wrote his philosophical books here. The beautiful Anna feodorovna, daughter of the Russian czar asked for a romantic garden to be created here in Berne.

River Aare:

The crystal clear glacial water of the River Aare that flows through Berne covers a large terrain. The people swimming in the river get a good view of the city from the serene waters of the Aare. Europe’s first bathing facilities on the river were built here. People can easily swim in the river bathing lido.

Brief History and Architecture:

The city was founded in 1191 on a spur of rock above the rive Aare. It was established by the rich privileges and funds by Friedrich von Hohenstaufen. The Bernese were great administrators and politicians. The town flourished due to foreign trade and market dues which were levied on the people. The people of Berne were good town planners. In the middle ages the monumental structure of Markstrasse was constructed 24 m wide which matches even today’s freeways.

A fire in 1405 managed to destroy the entire town. Then Berne was reconstructed in the layout it is in present times. Wide streets had huge colonnades and sandstone buildings a hundred years onwards. There were arcades where people could walk and stroll on feet. In the Middle Ages 4 mile long covered walkways were constructed.

In the sixteenth century the city was beautified with a stunning astronomical clock tower. Zahringer and Simson fountains were built with elegant wooden watering places. During the French revolution people of Berne met at coffee houses to discuss the development of the city. French styled facades and interiors were done up in exquisite fabrics and carpets.

Since the 1900s the Federal Parliament building has been the center of democracy for the Swiss. Einstein’s house, the town hall, church of St. Vinzenz- the gothic basilica, opulent markets, its medieval street grids, Maritsgasse are all waiting to be explored for the years to come.

Traveling Tips:

Berne is perfect for visit any time of the year. There are many cheap hotels in the old town and in the surrounding areas. Swiss handy crafts, antiques make for great souvenirs. Berne is renowned for its chocolate and Bernese gingerbread.

Berne can offer great gastronomic yet simple delights. Fried potato which is thinly sliced is a local favorite known as Bernese Rosti. A Bernese meal plate generally includes sausage and sauerkraut, ham and meat. Vinegar marinated liver and meringues feature amongst other favorite foods.

Festivals:

Gassenfasnacht is the carnival held in the month of February. “Dance days” is the festival that takes place from August to September.  The Onion Market Festival takes place on the last Monday in the month of November.