Cities
Switzerland Bern Bern Church

Bern Minster

Bern Minster
About

Bern Minster, or Berner Münster, is the tallest cathedral in Switzerland and a defining feature of Bern’s skyline. Construction began in 1421 and spanned over four centuries, culminating in the completion of its 100-meter spire in 1893. This Gothic masterpiece stands above the Old Town, offering panoramic views from its 344-step tower. The cathedral’s intricate façade features “The Last Judgment” sculpture, while inside, visitors can admire soaring vaulted ceilings, stained glass windows from the 15th century, and the grand organ with over 5,400 pipes. Originally a Catholic church, it became a Reformed Protestant cathedral during the Reformation, reflecting Bern’s evolving religious and political identity. The adjacent cloister and crypt add to its historical depth, with gravestones and quiet courtyards inviting reflection. Whether for its architecture, history, or sweeping views, Bern Minster is a must-see for anyone exploring the Swiss capital.

Bern Switzerland
Location

Bern Minster (Berner Münster) is located at Münsterplatz 1, 3011 Bern, on the southern side of the Aare peninsula in the heart of Bern’s UNESCO-listed Old Town. The cathedral’s west façade dominates Münsterplatz, a historic square directly in front of the church, while the Münsterplattform terrace lies to the south, offering panoramic views over the Matte district and the Aare River. Nearby, you’ll find the Zytglogge clock tower, the Federal Palace (Bundeshaus), the arcaded shopping streets of Kramgasse, and the Rose Garden, all within easy walking distance. The area is filled with medieval streets, historic fountains, and vibrant squares, making the Minster a central landmark surrounded by Bern’s most iconic attractions.

Bern Historical Museum Bern Historical Museum Bern Zentrum Paul Klee Zentrum Paul Klee Bern Museum of Communication Museum of Communication Bern Kunstmuseum Bern Kunstmuseum Bern Bern Einstein House Einstein House Bern Naturhistorisches Museum Bern Naturhistorisches Museum Bern Bern Alpine Museum of Switzerland Alpine Museum of Switzerland Bern Federal Palace Federal Palace Bern Rose Garden Rose Garden Bern Bear Park Bear Park Bern University of Bern Botanical Garden University of Bern Botanical Garden Bern Bundesplatz Bundesplatz Bern Zytglogge Zytglogge Bern Kornhausplatz Kornhausplatz Bern Münsterplatz Münsterplatz Bern Bühnen Bern Bühnen Bern Bern Kornhausforum Kornhausforum Bern National Theater National Theater Bern Kunsthalle Bern Kunsthalle Bern Bern Galerie SOON Galerie SOON Bern Gurten Gurten Bern Bierhübeli Bierhübeli Bern

User attributes