The Federal Palace in Bern is home to the National Council and Council of States – Switzerland’s two parliamentary chambers. Completed in the late 19th century, it features a grand dome, symbolic mosaics, and sculptures representing cantonal unity. While official sessions take place inside, the surrounding square often hosts public events and light shows. Free guided tours offer a glimpse into the workings of Swiss democracy.
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What is this place
The Federal Palace (Bundeshaus) in Bern is the seat of Switzerland’s parliament and federal government on Bundesplatz. The complex combines west and east administrative wings with a domed central Parliament Building.
Key features
- Three-part ensemble: West Wing 1852–1857, East Wing 1888–1892, and the central Parliament Building 1894–1902 by Hans Wilhelm Auer.
- Approx. 64 m copper dome with a drum of 22 windows – matching the number of cantons then; the glass oculus bears “Unus pro omnibus – omnes pro uno”.
- Bern sandstone façades and a symbolic interior iconography – from the Domed Hall to the chambers of the National Council and Council of States.
- Bundesplatz water feature with 26 jets from 2004, representing all cantons.
- Bundesterrasse behind the building – a terrace overlooking the Aare, Marzili quarter and Mount Gurten.
What to see
- The Domed Hall and both chambers – on free guided tours when parliament is not in session.
- Public galleries during sessions – watch debates with advance booking and ID.
- Bundesplatz with its fountains and the Bundesterrasse panorama.
History
After the 1848 federal state was founded, Bern built up its government quarter: the West Wing 1852–1857 and the East Wing 1888–1892. The central Parliament Building followed 1894–1902, designed by Auer and inaugurated on 1 April 1902.
The first comprehensive renovation took place in the early 21st century. In 2004 Bundesplatz was redesigned with a 26-jet water display, and the square–terrace ensemble became a prime civic space.
Practical information
Location: Bundesplatz 3, 3005 Bern – at the southwest edge of the Old City, between Bundesplatz and the Bundesterrasse.
Getting there: 8–10 minutes on foot from Bern HB; trams 6, 7, 8, 9 to Zytglogge or Bärenplatz, then a short walk; Bundesplatz stop served by Bernmobil.
Access: When not in session – free guided tours only; during sessions – access to public galleries by reservation. Visitor entrance on the south side at the Bundesterrasse. Airport-style security in place.
Visiting hours: Tours typically Tue–Sat by schedule when no session; gallery access according to the session calendar.
Visit duration: 45–60 minutes for the interior tour; 20–30 minutes for the square and terrace.
Best time: Warm season for the fountains; golden hour for façades and terrace views.
Notes: Bring a valid photo ID and arrive ~30 minutes early at the Visitors’ Entrance on the Bundesterrasse. Large luggage is not permitted. Tour bookings open up to 180 days in advance.
