“New” Bundesplatz in Bern celebrates its 20th anniversary
Published: Wednesday, Jul 31st 2024, 09:40
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Exactly 20 years ago, the Bundesplatz in Bern was freed from cars. The redesigned square in front of the Bundeshaus, complete with water feature, was officially inaugurated on July 31 and August 1, 2004.
The Federal Square was built in 1902 at the same time as the parliament building. According to historians, the federal state wanted to demonstrate its power to the people of Bern. It is all the more astonishing that the square was then used for decades as a mundane parking area for cars.
That only changed at the beginning of this century. The cars were banned. Since 2004, a 60 by 36 meter rectangle of natural stone slabs made of Vals gneiss has been spreading out. A water feature with 26 jets adds a three-dimensional element to the square. The redesign cost around eight million francs.
"A monument in front of the monument" would not have made sense, according to the architect and the two visual designers who created the winning project. They therefore created an open space, a "designed void", in front of the monumental building of the Bundeshaus.
Colorful hustle and bustle in front of the parliament
From spring to fall, the water feature is a popular attraction in the federal city. Water splashes and children jump through the fountains, screaming.
Many a Swiss state guest is said to have noticed the colorful hustle and bustle in front of the parliament with a smile and a little astonishment, according to stories in the streets of Bern. The 26 fountains of the water feature, which represent the Swiss cantons, are a popular photo motif for tourists.
The water feature is turned off during the weekly market on Tuesdays and Saturdays - and of course also when the Bundesplatz is used as a venue for events and demonstrations.
©Keystone/SDA
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