Saanen, municipality in the canton of Bern, Switzerland
Saanen is a village and municipality in Switzerland located in the Bernese Highlands at over one thousand meters in elevation. It features traditional wooden and stone buildings dating from the 15th to 18th centuries arranged along quiet streets and surrounded by mountains and green fields.
The village was first mentioned in 1228 and later had several forts to protect important trade routes to Valais and Vaud. During the Middle Ages it was involved in regional disputes until Bern took control during the Reformation, and a fire in 1575 destroyed much of it before reconstruction followed.
The name Saanen comes from the Alemannic language and refers to the village's geographical setting. Walking through the narrow streets, you see how the community has maintained its traditions, especially through regular markets and local festivals that have taken place here for centuries.
The village is easily reached by train since it sits on the Goldenpass line with regular connections. The streets are narrow and walkable on foot, while the surrounding area offers many hiking trails and ski slopes in winter for outdoor activities.
The Church of Saint Maurice dating from 1228 features a rare hexagonal tower shape that gives it a distinctive architectural character in the region. This unusual form makes the building a visual landmark that aids in finding your way through the village.
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