Riehen

Riehen is a municipality in Basel-Stadt that straddles the Swiss-German border, combining residential neighborhoods with forests and farmland. The town sits at approximately 278 meters elevation and provides direct access to neighboring German cities.

The settlement first appears in historical records in 1157 under the name Rieheim and grew from medieval trade routes. Over centuries it transformed into a residential community closely linked to Basel.

The Fondation Beyeler showcases international artworks in a modern setting surrounded by gardens where visitors walk freely between exhibitions and nature. This cultural space reflects the area's prosperity and its connection to the global art world.

The municipality is well served by public transportation linking easily to Basel's central station and German neighbor towns. Visitors exploring on foot or by bicycle will find ample green spaces and pathways throughout.

In 1958, the municipality made Swiss political history by electing Trudy Späth-Schweizer as the first female municipal council member in the entire country. This election marked an early breakthrough for women's representation in local government.

Location: Basel-Stadt

Elevation above the sea: 295 m

Shares border with: Lörrach, Basel, Bettingen

Website: https://riehen.ch

GPS coordinates: 47.58056,7.64917

Latest update: December 20, 2025 12:09