Käfigturm, <em>Bern</em>
Bern

Käfigturm, Bern

About Käfigturm

Located in the heart of Bern, the Käfigturm is the city's historic prison tower. It has been a central part of the city’s skyline since its initial construction in 1256. Originally serving as a defensive tower and city gate, it has witnessed numerous transformations, pivotal to Bern's history. After a devastating fire in 1405, it was converted into a prison, a role it played for nearly five centuries. Its Baroque architecture, part of the UNESCO Cultural World Heritage site of the Old City of Bern, adds a distinctive aesthetic to the city's architectural landscape.


The Käfigturm serves as a testament to mediaeval architecture. It is also a symbol of modern-day democracy and public discourse. Since 1999, it has housed the Political Forum of Bern, providing a venue for exhibitions and debates on significant political and social issues. 

Visitors to the Käfigturm can explore its rich history, from its origins as a city guard to its present-day role as a forum for political exchange. It offers a compelling glimpse into the multifaceted historical and cultural identity of Bern.

Day Wise Timings

Burj Khalifa opening hours through the week.

Open 6 days a week
Free entry
Monday14:00 – 18:00
Tuesday10:00 – 18:00
Wednesday10:00 – 18:00
Thursday10:00 – 18:00
Friday10:00 – 18:00
Saturday10:00 – 16:00
SundayClosed
Hours are seasonal — confirm your date at checkout. Special events may extend closing time.

Käfigturm Highlights

• Pay a visit to Käfigturm in Bern, a mediaeval prison which now serves as a modern political hub.
• Delve into history with exhibits detailing its past as a 13th-century city gate.
• Discover the "Tower Books" archives, where centuries-old criminal records are preserved.
• Enjoy interactive tours that illuminate Käfigturm’s role in Bern’s urban development.
• Capture the architectural elegance of this UNESCO World Heritage site in your photos.

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Point of Interest for Käfigturm

Participate in a Guided Tour

Participate in a Guided Tour

Take part in a guided tour offered by knowledgeable locals who bring the Käfigturm's centuries-old history to life. These tours offer insights into the tower's initial construction as a city gate and prison to its pivotal role in civic life. They also help to deepen your appreciation of Bern's architectural and political heritage. The guides’ narratives enrich your visit, detailing the transformation of this historic edifice into a key site for public discourse. During the tour, you can also explore hidden nooks that served as prison cells and learn about the tower's architectural evolution.

Engage with Interactive Displays

Engage with Interactive Displays

Get a practical lesson in history through interactive displays that engage visitors of all ages. These exhibits detail the Käfigturm's evolution through interactive timelines and artefacts. They also highlight its impact on Bern's social and political spheres. A visit here is like an educational journey that makes history accessible and entertaining. Touch screens and multimedia presentations offer insights into the Swiss political processes, featuring key figures and events that have shaped the nation.

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