Parliament Building and Parliament Square

Up until 2003, Bundesplatz was a dull, grey parking lot. On Tuesdays and Saturdays, however, it came (and still comes) alive with the bustling, colourful farmers’ market, selling fruit, vegetables and flowers. From 2003 to 2004, it was radically redesigned, getting rid of the parking lot and allowing for an unobstructed view of the magnificent Bundeshaus (Parliament Building). The square now has an elegant appearance, with its grand 180 m2 and slabs of dark gneiss from Vals.

In addition to the farmers’ market, there are also political manifestations, concerts, state visits, and sporting events that take place on Bundesplatz. Surrounding the square are the headquarters of the Swiss National Bank to its left and the Berner Kantonalbank (Cantonal Bank of Bern) to its right as well as Bärenplatz with its many restaurants at the North end. Behind the Bundeshaus lies the Bundesterrasse (literally: federal terrace), a promenade that spans all the way from the Kleine Schanze park to the historic Bellevue Hotel which, once upon a time, saw heads of state, artists, actors, and secret agents come and go. The Bundesterrasse is a place where locals like to meet to chat, enjoy a sundowner with a view, read a book, or sunbathe. From here, you can reach the main station in only five minutes on foot, and the popular Marzili neighbourhood and the River Aare in ten

Detailed information on Switzerland's political system can be found here.