The Prison Tower
From 1977 to 1979 both the interior and exterior of the Prison Tower underwent complete renovation. Since 1999 the Prison Tower has served as the seat of the Confederation's political forum, regularly hosting exhibitions and events relating to political issues.
As the name Prison Tower suggests, this gate tower was originally constructed as a prison. It was Bern's second city gate.
(open only during the exhibitions of the political forum)
Monday - Friday: 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Saturday: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Admission is free.
Monday - Friday: 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Saturday: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Admission is free.
From main train station, take tram no. 6/7/8/9 to "Bärenplatz" stop, or 5 minutes by foot.
Year constructed: 1643
Layout: about 10m by 10m
Height: 49m to the knob of the weathervane
Number of floors: 5 plus the attic
Floor space: 475 m2
Number of stairs: 106 not counting the mezzanine or attic ladder
Elevator installation: not possible due to the building's landmark status
Layout: about 10m by 10m
Height: 49m to the knob of the weathervane
Number of floors: 5 plus the attic
Floor space: 475 m2
Number of stairs: 106 not counting the mezzanine or attic ladder
Elevator installation: not possible due to the building's landmark status
