Cage Tower

The majestic Käfigturm is one of the most recognizable historical structures gracing Bern. Located in the heart of the Old Town, this 49-meter high medieval tower served as the city's western gate for a long time, and today it is recognized as a national cultural monument that Switzerland is rightfully proud of.

Käfigturm. Иллюстрация. Источник: Kupi.com AI

The architectural appearance of the tower, made of grey sandstone, reflects Late Renaissance features. Its facade is decorated with austere pilasters and consoles, and above the gateway arch sits a massive "Majesty of Bern" medallion, depicting the coats of arms of the city and the Habsburg dynasty. This monumental building literally breathes history, reminding us of the times when city walls were the only protection for residents.

The object got its name, which translates from German as "Prison Tower", because a prison was located here for several centuries. Today, the purpose of the Käfigturm has completely changed: since 1999, the Polit-Forum has operated within its walls, hosting thematic exhibitions and public discussions, making it an important center of the city's modern cultural life.

To find out more about current events or opening hours, you can contact the administration directly. This is especially useful if you are planning to visit one of the temporary exhibitions inside the tower.

Begin your visit with an external inspection of this massive structure. Be sure to pay attention to the tower clock, installed back in the late 17th century. An amazing fact: its mechanism is still wound by hand every 36 hours, preserving an old tradition. Right in front of the tower is the elegant Anna Seiler Fountain, dedicated to the founder of the city's first hospital — it is one of the best spots for atmospheric photos.

If you are lucky and the tower is open on the day of your visit, be sure to take a look inside. Since 1999, free exhibitions on politics, history, and social issues have been held here regularly. This is a unique chance to see the ancient interiors of the former prison, which now serve as a platform for democratic dialogue.

A visit to the Käfigturm is best combined with a leisurely stroll along Marktgasse. Walk under the famous Bernese arcades, browse the souvenir shops, or relax in one of the outdoor cafes on Bärenplatz, admiring how the tower's spire rises effectively above the roofs of the medieval houses.

Finding the famous "prison tower" is easy, as it is located in the heart of the historic center at Marktgasse 67. If you arrived in Bern by train, the walk from the main railway station (Bern Hauptbahnhof) takes only about 5 minutes. Simply walk along the busy Spitalgasse or Marktgasse streets, which lead straight to the architectural monument.

For those who prefer public transport, trams and buses are ideal. You should get off at the Bärenplatz or Marktgasse stops (lines 9 and 12, for example, run here). The city's transport system is very punctual and convenient for tourists.

If you are coming from Bern Airport (BRN), the easiest way is to take a train to the central station (the journey takes 20–30 minutes) and then walk. A taxi ride is also possible, but keep in mind that traffic is restricted in the Old Town, and a walk will allow you to experience the local atmosphere much better.

The first defensive structure on this site appeared as early as 1256. At that time, the tower served as the city's second western gate and was an important part of the second fortress wall protecting the growing city. However, the building we see today is the result of a large-scale reconstruction in the 1640s.

In 1638, it was decided to demolish the old, dilapidated structure, and by 1644, craftsmen had erected a new sandstone building in the Late Renaissance style. Interestingly, a room for a trumpeter was specially equipped in the upper part of the tower. This person was on duty around the clock to signal the townspeople in case of a fire — the main enemy of medieval wooden buildings.

The tower got its current name "Käfigturm" (which translates as Prison Tower) due to its somber function. Until 1897, prisoners were indeed kept here. After the prison closed, the building served as the state archives of the canton, and at the end of the 20th century, it was transformed into an open public space. Today, it is a place where the spirit of discussion and enlightenment reigns instead of prison supervision.

For most tourists, 20–30 minutes is enough to inspect the tower from the outside, photograph its monumental walls, and examine the details of the clock and medallions. This is a great format for a quick stop during a sightseeing walk through the center.

If you decide to go inside to visit a current exhibition or participate in a political forum, allow 1 to 1.5 hours for the visit. Combined with exploring the neighboring squares and fountains, a visit to this location will harmoniously fit into a full 3-hour route through old Bern.

The Käfigturm is available 24/7 for external viewing and walks around it. However, if you plan to visit the indoor exhibitions, please refer to the following schedule:

• Monday: 14:00 – 18:00
• Tuesday – Friday: 10:00 – 18:00
• Saturday: 10:00 – 16:00
• Sunday: closed

Please note that access inside may be restricted during special private forums or when changing exhibitions.

The tower's location in the Old Town makes it an ideal starting point for further exploration of the Swiss capital's historical heritage. Walking through the neighboring streets, you will find many fountains, cozy arcades, and majestic squares that are part of the UNESCO World Heritage list.