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BERN
Bern or Berne in French is a picturesque Swiss capital. Situated by the banks of River Aare, the city is guarded by the towering ranges of the Gurten and the Bantiger. It is the capital of Switzerland and the canton of Bern as well. Berne came into existence when Duke Berthold V of Zähringen founded it in 1191 and believed to be named after a certain kind of bear. It rose to prominence as a central point of the country right from the Roman age. Today it is home to some of the prestigious and most important universities, administrative and industrial houses of Switzerland. The hotel industry of Berne is the most prosperous one, taking in account the high rates of visitor turnabout to the city.
The diversity of this landlocked capital of Switzerland lies in its natural and historic surrounding. There are many heritage accommodations and old guild halls in the city that reflect the medieval architecture. Topographically, the beauty of the Swiss Plateau comes into full bloom in Berne. While taking a stroll by the fast flowing River Aare, one can stop and feel the city life dancing to the tune of the tinkling waters. With a scarce population, the city gives you the much wanted break from the big city life with a laid back attitude. If the climate is favourable, the view of snow capped mountain tops peeping from the building gaps is the most cherish able one.
Best way to explore the city is to step out of the bed and breakfast or hostel you are staying at and trod along the winding stony roads. The experience promises to be a hide and seek with past and present. Except for the occasional hoardings of the ‘apartments for rent’ or designer shops, the streets are filled with accommodation construction from ancient times. Given this unique identity, UNESCO conferred Bern with the prestigious status of a World Heritage Site.
City Center
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