Münster platform, Observation deck and park in Old Town, Switzerland

The Münster platform extends along the south side of Bern's Old Town with stone walkways, green areas, and multiple viewing points overlooking the Aare River. The space is layered with different levels that offer varied perspectives on the surroundings.

The foundation stone of the terrace was laid in 1334, but the supporting walls were only completed in 1514 under Münster master builder Erhart Küng. Until the Reformation of 1528 the space behind the walls remained a rubble dump, 14 metres below today's level. It served as a cemetery until 1531 and afterwards as a park.

The terrace is known in Bernese German as Pläfe. It served as a cemetery until 1531 and then became a park. Since 1897 the Mattelift has connected it to the Matte quarter by the Aare. A memorial plaque on the south balustrade commemorates student Theobald Weinzäpfli, who survived a fall over the wall on 23 May 1654.

You can reach the platform via Münstergasse or using the Mattelift elevator, which provides access from below. Benches and shaded areas throughout the space invite you to sit and rest throughout the year.

From the platform, you can clearly see the medieval city layout, especially how the streets radiate outward from the center. On clear days, the Alps appear on the horizon and frame the historical city like a natural backdrop.