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Prison Tower and its collection

Prison Tower
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The Käfigturm, located in Bern, Switzerland, is a medieval watchtower that dates back to the 13th century. It stands as a testament to the city's rich history and architectural prowess. The tower was initially built during the second expansion of Bern and has since undergone several modifications and renovations. Today, it serves as a significant historical landmark in the city.

Käfigturm as the City's Prison

In 1405, a significant event in the history of Käfigturm took place. After a fire ravaged much of Bern, the city's prison was relocated from the Zytglogge tower to the Käfigturm. This move marked a new chapter in the tower's history, as it began to serve a different purpose for the city.

Reconstruction of the Käfigturm

The Käfigturm underwent a significant transformation in 1640 when the old tower was demolished. A new tower was constructed slightly to the west of the old one, marking a significant change in the city's landscape. This new tower, which stands today, is a testament to the city's resilience and ability to rebuild and adapt over time.

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DEKäfigturm
ITTorre Käfigturm
ESKafigturm

History & Anthropology History & Anthropology Castle Historic house

#3 History & Anthropology in Switzerland #1 Castle in Switzerland #2 Historic houses in Switzerland #2 History & Anthropology in Bern #2 Historic houses in Bern #105 History & Anthropology in Europe #25 Castle in Europe #53 Historic houses in Europe

#3 History & Anthropology in Switzerland #1 Castle in Switzerland #2 Historic houses in Switzerland #2 History & Anthropology in Bern #2 Historic houses in Bern #105 History & Anthropology in Europe #25 Castle in Europe #53 Historic houses in Europe
Prison Tower
Marktgasse 67
3011 Bern

Images of Prison Tower

Visitor information Prison Tower

Opening hours

Monday
14:00 – 18:00
Tuesday
10:00 – 18:00
Wednesday
10:00 – 18:00
Thursday
10:00 – 18:00
Friday
10:00 – 18:00
Saturday
10:00 – 16:00
Sunday Closed
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Admission

We don't have information about the tickets & prices of Prison Tower.

Facilities

We don't have information about the facilities of Prison Tower.

Location & Map

Marktgasse 67, Bern

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Exhibitions

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Prison Tower Reviews

Prison Tower has 1 rating.

  • Apollo's Insights AI-Generated

    The Prison Tower in Bern, Switzerland, offers visitors a glimpse into the city's medieval history. Located in the heart of Bern's Old Town, this historic landmark serves as both a museum and an observation point. The tower, which once served as a prison, now houses exhibits that detail its past and the broader history of Bern's penal system.

    Visitors appreciate the well-preserved structure and the opportunity to climb to the top for panoramic views of the city. The climb can be challenging, with narrow, steep stairs, which might be difficult for those with mobility issues. However, many find the view from the top to be worth the effort, offering a unique perspective of Bern's cityscape and the surrounding Alps.

    The museum portion of the tower provides informative displays about its history, though some visitors note that the exhibits are relatively basic and primarily in German. This can be a drawback for non-German speaking tourists who might miss out on some of the historical context.

    The Prison Tower is often noted for its quick visit time, typically taking about 30 minutes to an hour to explore fully. While this makes it an easy addition to a day of sightseeing in Bern, some visitors feel it lacks the depth of larger museums.

    Overall, the Prison Tower is appreciated for its historical significance and the views it offers. However, the limited exhibit space and potential language barrier for non-German speakers prevent it from being a top-tier attraction. It's generally considered a worthwhile stop for those interested in Bern's history or looking for a good vantage point of the city, but may not be a priority for all visitors.

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