Bern Minster

Bern Minster is a Protestant church building that rises above the Old City with its Gothic tower constructed from local sandstone. The structure displays typical Gothic features with elaborately decorated portals and a soaring tower form.

Construction of the cathedral began in 1421 under architect Mathieu Ensinger, and the building underwent modifications across several centuries. The tower received its final form only during the 1890s.

The cathedral hosts regular Protestant services and musical performances, where the interior stained glass windows depicting biblical scenes shape the visitor's experience. These decorated panes influence how light fills the main hall.

The climb to the observation platform at the tower top involves ascending steps and provides views over the city and distant mountains. Visitors should expect a narrow stairway that requires some physical effort.

The main entrance portal displays an extensive collection of medieval stone sculptures representing the Last Judgment. Nearly 300 hand-carved figures were carefully carved into the facade.

Location: Bern

Inception: 1421

Architectural style: Gothic architecture, Gothic art

Height: 100.6 m

Accessibility: Wheelchair limited access

Made from material: sandstone

Part of: list of cultural properties in Bern / Inner City (East), Old City of Bern

Address: Münsterplatz 1, 3011 Bern

Website: https://bernermuenster.ch

GPS coordinates: 46.94722,7.45139

Latest update: December 20, 2025 14:16