Cathedral of Bern — Attraction in Bern

Bern Cathedral (Berner Münster) Standing as the tallest cathedral in Switzerland, the Bern Cathedral is also known as the Berner Münster and is one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. Construction began in 1421 in the Gothic style and continued in stages for several centuries. Its 100-meter (328-foot) spire was only completed in 1893, and today it offers panoramic views over the city of Bern, the Aare River, and even the snow-capped Alps on clear days.

Located at the edge of the UNESCO-listed Old Town, the cathedral is both an architectural masterpiece and a spiritual center. The interior is majestic, featuring soaring ribbed vaults, elegant stained-glass windows, and intricate choir stalls carved from oak. One of the most remarkable features is the main portal, adorned with over 200 stone figures depicting the Last Judgment, which is an incredibly detailed and rare example of late Gothic sculpture in Switzerland.

The cathedral played a central role during the Reformation and has remained a Protestant church since the 16th century. Despite this, much of its original Catholic iconography and artistry was preserved, making it a fascinating site for both religious and historical exploration.

Visitors can climb 344 steps to the top of the tower for a breathtaking 360-degree view of Bern and the surrounding landscape. Inside, occasional concerts are held, utilizing the cathedral’s grand organ, which is among the largest in Switzerland.

Whether you're interested in architecture, history, or simply looking to enjoy stunning views, the Bern Cathedral is...

The main portal of Bern Minster is one of the most complete collections of Late Gothic sculpture.

The tympanum depicts the Last Judgment, carved entirely by Erhard Küng, which gives the ensemble a remarkable unity of design. The wicked are shown naked on the right and the righteous clothed in white on the left, while in the center Archangel Michael holds a raised sword, overseeing the fate of souls.

Flanking the doors, the left side depicts the five Foolish Virgins, the right side the Wise Virgins.

The Dance of Death (Danse Macabre) stained glass window in Bern Minster was created in 1519 and depicts skeletons leading people from all walks of life—kings, clergy, peasants, and children—toward death, emphasizing the inevitability and universality of mortality.

Bern Minster (Berner Münster), begun in 1421 and completed with its 100-metre tower in 1893, is the tallest church in Switzerland and a landmark of late Gothic architecture. It became Protestant in 1528 during the Reformation.

The church has a three-aisled basilica plan with slender columns, high rib-vaulted ceilings, and flying buttresses supporting the nave, exemplifying the vertical emphasis and detailed craftsmanship typical of the...

This review is somewhat niche, but hopefully some people will find it helpful.

My wife and I were fortunate enough to get to travel across Western Europe by train- we weren’t sure how visiting Bern would go, but we went for it. We got to Bern Cathedral before it opened and it made for an incredible day.

On this whole trip we visited most of the famous Cathedrals and Castles you might be thinking of, but Bern was special. When you walk through Bern Cathedral you can sense the work, the sweat that went into making it. It feels like a Cathedral for the blue collar, for the stone mason and the bricklayer. I absolutely loved it.

Don’t get me wrong, I am in awe in most Cathedrals, but this feels like eating at the farmers table rather than fine dining. It is not the oldest Cathedral yet it feels ancient. It is was not the most ornate Cathedral but it is gorgeous. It was refreshing, rustic, and caused me to reflect in a meaningful way.

Bern Cathedral may not be for everyone. It is not like an art museum the way many Cathedrals are. It is more a testament to the builder...