Mattenschwelle, Water regulation weir in Mattequartier, Switzerland
Mattenschwelle is a weir that stretches across the Aare River and regulates water flow for the surrounding area. The structure diverts water into a canal system that serves the city's needs.
In the 1300s, the city of Bern acquired the structure from a local nobleman, taking control of this important waterway. The weir has been managed by the municipality since that time.
The weir is a working part of the city's relationship with the river, showing how residents depend on this infrastructure. You can observe how the water is directed and controlled to serve the community's daily needs.
You can view the weir from the riverbank or nearby footpaths and watch how the water moves and behaves. The site is easy to reach on foot from the surrounding area.
This weir was originally built to power mills using water energy, a purpose it has served for centuries. Today the same water power is converted into electricity through a small power station, keeping alive an ancient practice in modern form.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
