Mosesbrunnen
Bern's historic Mosesbrunnen on Münsterplatz, depicting Moses with the Ten Commandments, a key stop on the city's fountain trail.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Mosesbrunnen
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Best light for photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Bern's historic Mosesbrunnen on Münsterplatz, depicting Moses with the Ten Commandments, a key stop on the city's fountain trail.
"A picturesque fountain in the heart of Bern's Old Town, perfect for history lovers and photographers."
🗺️ Fountain Discovery Tour
Follow the zigzagging trail of Bern's 11 historic fountains, starting from the train station. :walking:
⬆️ Climb the Cathedral Tower
For stunning panoramic views of Bern and the Alps, climb the 312 steps of the cathedral tower. :camerawithflash:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Moses Statue
Münsterplatz
See Moses depicted with radiant light from his head, symbolizing his divine encounter, holding the Ten Commandments.
Louis XVI Basin
Münsterplatz
Admire the elegant basin designed by Niklaus Sprüngli, a beautiful example of 18th-century artistry.
Bern Cathedral
Münsterplatz
Visit the impressive cathedral adjacent to the fountain and climb its tower for breathtaking city and mountain views.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Bern's Iconic Fountain Trail
Combine with Cathedral Views
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🗺️ Fountain Discovery Tour
Follow the zigzagging trail of Bern's 11 historic fountains, starting from the train station. :walking:
⬆️ Climb the Cathedral Tower
For stunning panoramic views of Bern and the Alps, climb the 312 steps of the cathedral tower. :camerawithflash:
🌳 Relax in the Park
During warmer months, enjoy a drink or ice cream in the lovely park below the fountain. :ice_cream:
🚶♂️ Walk from Station
It's about a 15-minute walk from Bern's main train station to Münsterplatz. :train2:
Tips
from all over the internet
🗺️ Fountain Discovery Tour
Follow the zigzagging trail of Bern's 11 historic fountains, starting from the train station. :walking:
⬆️ Climb the Cathedral Tower
For stunning panoramic views of Bern and the Alps, climb the 312 steps of the cathedral tower. :camerawithflash:
🌳 Relax in the Park
During warmer months, enjoy a drink or ice cream in the lovely park below the fountain. :ice_cream:
🚶♂️ Walk from Station
It's about a 15-minute walk from Bern's main train station to Münsterplatz. :train2:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find the Mosesbrunnen a charming and historically significant stop in Bern's Old Town, especially when combined with the Bern Cathedral. The statue's symbolism and the fountain's design are appreciated, though some may see it as one of many beautiful fountains in the city. The adjacent park and the option to climb the cathedral tower are frequently highlighted as major draws.
"The Mosesbrunnen (Moses Fountain) is a fountain on Münsterplatz in the Old City of Bern. The statue dates from 1544. After storm damage it was rebuilt in 1790-1791. The Louis XVI style basin was designed by Niklaus Sprüngli. The statue represents Moses bringing the Ten Commandments to the Tribes of Israel. Moses is portrayed with two groups of rays of light projecting from his head, which tells that after meeting with God the skin of Moses' face became radiant."
antonios varzakis
"Located in the heart of Bern's Old Town and directly in front of the city’s cathedral, this picturesque fountain is the eighth of 11 iconic figurine fountains dating back to the 16th century you'll encounter on your zigzag fountain discovery tour starting from the city's train station. ⛲️
As the fountain’s name implies, the statue depicts Moses delivering the Ten Commandments to the Tribes of Israel. He is portrayed with two groups of rays of light emanating from his head, symbolizing the radiant glow that appeared on his face after meeting with God. ✨
Once there, make sure to visit the cathedral and climb its 312 steps to the tower gallery at a height of 64 meters. The panorama of the old city and the majestic Alps won’t disappoint you! ⛪️
And if you’re visiting during the warmer months, don’t forget to enjoy a drink or an ice cream in the lovely park just beneath! 🍦🥤"
Christian Tohmé
"If you walk from the main train station it will take you some 15 minutes to reach Münsterplatz, where you will not only find this fountain, but also the Cathedral of Bern. This fountain dates from the 16th century and as its name suggests it shows Moses bringing the Ten Commandments to the Tribes of Israel."
Alejandro Montiel
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Mosesbrunnen is located on Münsterplatz, a pleasant 15-minute walk from Bern's main train station. Simply head towards the Old City and follow signs for the Bern Cathedral (Münster).
Parking in Bern's Old City can be challenging and expensive. It's highly recommended to use public transport or walk from the train station. If driving, look for public parking garages like the Rathausgasse or Casino parking. :car:
Yes, several bus and tram lines stop near Münsterplatz. Check the Bernmobil website for the most up-to-date routes and schedules. Trams 6, 7, 8, and 9, as well as buses 10 and 12, are good options. :bus:
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Mosesbrunnen is a public fountain located in Münsterplatz, and there is no entrance fee to view it. Access is free and open to everyone. :ticket:
As an outdoor public fountain, the Mosesbrunnen is accessible 24/7. However, the surrounding area and shops may have specific opening hours. :clock1:
No booking is required for the Mosesbrunnen itself. If you plan to visit the Bern Cathedral tower, separate tickets may be required, and it's advisable to check their official website for current information. :moneybag:
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The statue depicts Moses bringing the Ten Commandments to the Tribes of Israel. He is shown with rays of light projecting from his head, symbolizing the radiance of his skin after meeting with God.
The Mosesbrunnen is situated on Münsterplatz, directly in front of the magnificent Bern Cathedral. You can also explore the charming streets of Bern's Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Absolutely! Climbing the 312 steps to the tower gallery offers a breathtaking 360-degree panorama of Bern's Old City and the majestic Swiss Alps. It's a highly recommended experience.
Yes, during warmer months, there's a lovely park area just beneath the fountain where you can sit, relax, and enjoy a drink or ice cream.
Definitely! The fountain, the cathedral, and the surrounding Old Town provide numerous picturesque opportunities for photographers. The tower climb offers incredible vantage points. :camerawithflash:
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, Münsterplatz and the surrounding Old Town are filled with charming cafes, traditional Swiss restaurants, and international eateries. You'll find plenty of options for a meal or a coffee break. :coffee:
During warmer months, you can often find vendors selling ice cream and snacks in the park area near the fountain. Many cafes also offer pastries and light refreshments. :ice_cream:
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Don't miss the opportunity to climb the Bern Cathedral tower together! While the 312 steps might be a challenge, the incredible views from the top are a memorable reward for the whole family. It offers a fantastic perspective of the city and the surrounding landscape.
📸 Photographers
The absolute must-do for photographers is climbing the Bern Cathedral tower. The panoramic views from the top are spectacular, offering unique angles of the city's rooftops, the Aare River, and the Alps. Early morning or late afternoon visits can help avoid the largest crowds and provide the best light for capturing stunning shots.
🚶♂️ History Buffs & Culture Enthusiasts
Combine your visit with an exploration of the Bern Cathedral, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture. Climbing the tower provides not only views but also a sense of historical perspective. Wandering through the UNESCO-listed Old Town, with its arcades and medieval buildings, further immerses you in Bern's rich past.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History and Symbolism of Mosesbrunnen
Originally built in the 16th century, the fountain has undergone restoration. The current Louis XVI-style basin was designed by Niklaus Sprüngli and installed during a rebuild in 1790-1791, showcasing a blend of historical periods. The statue itself is notable for its portrayal of Moses with two groups of rays of light projecting from his head. This detail is a visual cue to the biblical account where Moses' face became radiant after his encounter with God, a testament to divine presence and authority.
As one of Bern's eleven historic figurine fountains, the Mosesbrunnen is part of a fascinating discovery tour that winds through the Old Town. Each fountain tells its own story, contributing to the rich tapestry of Bern's cultural heritage. Visiting the Mosesbrunnen offers a glimpse into the city's past and its enduring connection to religious and artistic traditions. :statueofliberty:
Exploring Münsterplatz and Beyond
The Bern Cathedral (Münster) is an architectural marvel, and its tower offers an unparalleled experience. For a small fee, you can climb the 312 steps to the tower gallery, which stands at 64 meters. The reward is a breathtaking panoramic view encompassing the red-tiled roofs of the Old City, the winding Aare River, and the distant, majestic Swiss Alps. This view is consistently praised by visitors and is a highlight for many.
During warmer months, the area beneath the fountain transforms into a pleasant spot to relax. Visitors can enjoy a drink or an ice cream from nearby vendors, soaking in the atmosphere of this historic square. It's a perfect place to pause, reflect, and appreciate the beauty and history surrounding you.
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