Looking at the map of the capital of Switzerland, you immediately understand from what point the city began to develop - the Aare river makes a sharp bend, creating a natural water barrier for external enemies, it is from here that the oldest streets of Bern originate.
A walk along the quiet streets and lanes of the historical center is a kind of journey into the past of Europe. The walls of old houses remember a lot and can tell many wonderful stories about the city's life that has been boiling for several centuries.
Marktgasse - the center of the old trade
The name of Marktgasse street is translated quite simply - "Market", today it belongs to the list of small city streets located in the heart of old Bern. At the same time, life here continues to boil today - numerous cafes and cozy restaurants, souvenir shops and shops invite you to plunge into a real holiday.
For those wishing to see local sights, the street has prepared many surprises: why would it be under the protection of UNESCO, if it did not have monuments of deep Swiss history. It is here that you can find two beautiful towers, covered with legends and having symbolic names - Prison and Sentry. The street is also decorated with several lovely fountains, the most popular with guests:
- Anna-Seiler-Brunnen, named after the founder of the first medical institution in Bern;
- Schuetzernbrunnen, whose name is translated simply - "Strelka".
Another fountain with the frightening popular name "Eater of Children" is located nearby, on the granary square. It was once surrounded by the tall walls of the Old City, preserving strategic food supplies. Today it is a favorite walking place for tourists who come to see the figure of a terrible giant decorating the fountain.
Record holder among the streets of Bern
This title was awarded to Kramgasse Street, as it is the longest in the Swiss capital. Neighboring streets - Spitalgasse and Marktgasse are considered to be its kind of continuation. Together they form a shopping mall that is said to be one of the longest in Europe.
You can find many interesting things here, including fashionable wardrobe items for ladies, antiques that real men will appreciate, trinkets and souvenirs - a joy for young tourists. The main highlight of the street is house number 49, or rather, not the building itself, but one of its former residents. The list of honorary inhabitants of this modest-looking house includes the famous Albert Einstein.
