St. Margarethen

St. Margarethen is a recreational area spanning a roughly 500-meter-wide ridge of the Bruderholz plateau with parks, sports facilities, and natural spaces. The site sits at approximately 320 meters elevation and offers a mix of structured amenities and open green areas.

The territory became part of Basel-Stadt in 1894, while Margarethenpark was established in 1823 as an English garden with a country house designed by Karl Burckhardt-Thurneysen. This garden layout remains an important feature of the landscape today.

The site connects to a local story about three sisters who each built churches on different hills around Basel, creating visible links between these elevated locations. This narrative gives the place a special role in the region's spiritual geography.

The area includes an ice rink, Sonnenbad bathing facility, and winter sledding slopes on the Margretehügel. It is wise to dress for changing weather, as the open spaces can be quite exposed to wind.

The St. Margarethen Observatory sits in the eastern section and occasionally opens for viewing and events. The former convent church on the northwestern tip at 310 meters elevation adds an unexpected architectural landmark to the hilltop.

Location: Basel-Stadt

Location: Basel-Landschaft

GPS coordinates: 47.54260,7.58072

Latest update: December 14, 2025 12:25