House of Parliament
Construction on the Parliament Building (the west wing of today's Parliament Building) started in 1852. The east wing, mirroring the west wing, was added in 1884; and in 1902 the structure was extended into a building complex composed of three parts. All in all, 38 artists from throughout Switzerland are responsible for the building's decorations.
The Parliament Building is the seat of the Swiss government (Federal Council) and the parliament (National Council and Council of States). The building was completed in 1902. The central domed hall and both chambers feature numerous symbolic renderings of Swiss history.
Parliament Square was inaugurated on July 31 and August 1, 2004 (Swiss National Day). The square now serves as a gathering place for young and old, rather than providing parking spaces for cars as it used to. It also hosts the traditional weekly market.
Guided tours
Individuals
•Due to the large number of visitors it is advisable to sign up the day before (Tel. +41 31 322 85 22). You will be given a ticket at the visitors’ office in the entrance hall. Please note that you will be asked to deposit an official identity document at the entrance during your visit.
Groups
•Groups of 10 up to max. 50 people must book their tour 3 to 4 months in advance at: besucherdienst@pd.admin.ch or Tel. +41 31 322 85 22. Each member of the group must deposit an official identity document at the entrance. Admission is free.
Tour times
•Monday - Saturday: 9 a.m., 10 a.m., 11 a.m., 2 p.m., 3 p.m. and 4 p.m.,
plus Thursdays: 5 p.m., 6 p.m. and 7 p.m.
Duration
•45 minutes
Languages
•French, German, Italian, English
Individuals
•Due to the large number of visitors it is advisable to sign up the day before (Tel. +41 31 322 85 22). You will be given a ticket at the visitors’ office in the entrance hall. Please note that you will be asked to deposit an official identity document at the entrance during your visit.
Groups
•Groups of 10 up to max. 50 people must book their tour 3 to 4 months in advance at: besucherdienst@pd.admin.ch or Tel. +41 31 322 85 22. Each member of the group must deposit an official identity document at the entrance. Admission is free.
Tour times
•Monday - Saturday: 9 a.m., 10 a.m., 11 a.m., 2 p.m., 3 p.m. and 4 p.m.,
plus Thursdays: 5 p.m., 6 p.m. and 7 p.m.
Duration
•45 minutes
Languages
•French, German, Italian, English
