City history
Explore the temporal and architectural evolution of Bern, Switzerland's federal city, from its medieval clock towers to its modern timekeeping standards.
Chapter one
Earliest documented name
"Disputed; potentially related to the bear (Bär)."
The name Bern was first documented in the late 12th century. While the city's symbol is the bear, linguistic scholars debate whether the name derives from this animal or has separate Celtic or Germanic roots.
Likely associated with the bear symbol
The city has maintained its name through centuries of political and social shifts.
Chapter two
Switzerland transitioned from local solar time to Central European Time to facilitate synchronized railway schedules and regional coordination.
The Swiss government implemented seasonal time shifts, moving between CET and CEST to better align with daylight patterns and energy efficiency.
Chapter three
The Zytglogge was established as a city gate and later became one of the most famous astronomical timekeeping landmarks in Europe.
Bern underwent significant urban expansion during this period, shaping the medieval street layouts seen in the Old Town today.
Following the establishment of the modern Swiss federal state, Bern was chosen as the de facto capital and center of government.