Basel cathedral

Basel Cathedral, a religious monument, is a true emblem of the Swiss city. It has two architectural styles: both Romanesque and Gothic.

Basel cathedral

Our apartments and studios in Basel

The Swiss border city of Basel offers many tourist attractions. Featuring numerous museums, it exudes a romantic charm, including its medieval old town.

Historical, cultural and architectural heritage

 

One of the highlights of its historical, cultural and architectural heritage is the Protestant Cathedral of Our Lady of Basel. Called Basler Münster in Swiss German, it is the main emblem of the Swiss city. Basel Cathedral is only a ten-minute walk from the Apart Hotel Adagio Basel City. This gives you the opportunity for a short walk to the other side of the river. T

he building is indeed built on the banks of the Rhine, which it majestically overlooks. From the Pfalz, a terrace overlooking the river, you can enjoy one of the most beautiful panoramas of Basel.

The Cathedral has two architectural styles

 

Built between 1019 and 1500, the Cathedral has two architectural styles: both Romanesque and Gothic. It was badly damaged by the violent earthquake of 1356. Originally Romanesque, it was then rebuilt according to the principles of Gothic art favoured at the time. Signs of this rebuilding are easy to spot, with the light sandstone blocks predating the earthquake that stand out against the predominantly pink sandstone.

Only two of the original five towers were rebuilt. These are the St. George's and St. Martin's towers, which appear to be of the same height. Yet the first is two metres taller than its neighbour. To check for yourself, you can take the 250 steps to the top, from where you will enjoy a breathtaking view of the Rhine city.

The great theologian and humanist Erasmus of Rotterdam died in Basel

 

He now lies in the north aisle, where his tomb can be seen. Another curiosity, the arch over the door of the Saint George's tower is known as the whispering arch. Whisper a few words on one side: the sound waves run along the arc and can be heard perfectly by anyone on the other side of the door!

Please note that guided tours are available in various languages.