Zytglogge (Clock Tower), Bern (must see)

The Clock Tower (Zytglogge), a medieval tower in Bern, stands as a multifaceted monument deeply embedded in the city's history and culture. Constructed around 1218–1220, initially as a guard tower for the city's western fortifications, the Clock Tower has evolved through various roles including a prison and a clock tower. This evolution reflects Bern’s historical journey following its de facto independence from the Empire.

Standing 54.5 meters tall with a footprint of 11.2 by 10.75 meters, the Clock Tower's structure is a testament to medieval architecture. The exterior, largely shaped during the 1770 renovation, features alpine limestone and sandstone cladding, decorative corner blocks, and a late Gothic cornice. A distinguishing feature is the tower's red-tiled Gothic spire, which hosts spire lights and ornamental urns, topped with a gilded knob and a weather vane bearing the Bernese coat of arms.

Internally, the Clock Tower has undergone numerous changes, especially as its function shifted across centuries. Initially a basic guard tower, it was later filled with additional floors in the fourteenth century. These rooms have variously served as city archives, storerooms, and even an air raid shelter, reflecting the tower’s central role in civic administration. Since 1979, these rooms have been cleared and now are showcased only during guided tours.

The Clock Tower is also renowned for its 15th-century astronomical clock, a major draw for tourists. As the clock nears the hour, visitors gather to watch a captivating mechanical performance featuring figures like bears, a jester, Chronos (the god of time), and a golden rooster, all of which animate in a delightful display.

For those willing to climb the 130 steps inside the tower, there awaits a stunning panoramic view of the UNESCO World Heritage Site that includes Bern's historic old city, with its characteristic tiled roofs and narrow lanes, extending out to the peaks of the Bernese Oberland on clear days.

Why You Should Visit:
To experience a wonderful example of the Swiss tradition of timekeeping – how often do you see an 800-year-old clock?

Tip:
The animation is best seen during the higher numbered hours (e.g. 12 at noon), but keep in mind that mass transit (buses & streetcars) does not stop during that time so beware of traffic at the intersection.
There's also a daily tour (except in winter months) at 2:30 pm provided in English, German, and French – pre-book it online! They take you up inside the tower to the different levels and explain the history and inner workings – very interesting!