Dutch tower, Medieval tower at Waisenhausplatz, Bern, Switzerland
The Dutch Tower is a defensive tower in Bern featuring late Gothic windows and multiple stories integrated into the surrounding buildings. It rises above Waisenhausplatz and shows the structural layout of the medieval fortification system.
The tower was built around 1256 as part of the city fortifications and belonged to Bern's earliest defensive structures. It received its name from a Bernese officer who served in the Netherlands during the 17th century.
The tower is part of the medieval fortification system that shaped the city. Its name connects to the Netherlands through a historical figure, linking Bern to broader European military networks of earlier centuries.
The tower is centrally located in Bern at Waisenhausplatz and is easily reached on foot. The best view comes from the street in front of the facade, where the architecture is clearly visible.
An inscription near the top displays the years 1230 to 1885, documenting a long history of city fortification. This marks it as one of the rare remaining sections of the old Savoy walls.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
