BASEL
Basel is one of the most interesting Swiss cities located on the
banks of the Rhine between Germany, France and Switzerland. It has
one of the best preserved medieval town in Europe and a vibrant
cultural and gastronomic scene. It also has the oldest university
in Switzerland. Moreover, Basel is next to the natural wonders of
the Jura, the Vosges, the Black Forest and the ruins of the ancient
Roman town of Augusta Raurica.
Among the six bridges over the Rhine, the Mittlere Brücke
offers the best views. On one side of the river is Gross Basel
(Great Basel), the medieval town. On the other side is Klein Basel
(Little Basel), the modern town. One of the merits of Basel is
that has managed to retain both its ancient cultural and architectural
heritage while promoting modern architecture and it has been awarded
for both reasons. So today, stunning contemporary buildings combine
with its charming old town (picturesque facades, squares with
fountains and a magnificent cathedral).
The Münster (cathedral) is a red sandstone temple of the
twelfth century, surmounted by two Gothic towers topped by needle
tracks with a solemn Romanesque facade decorated with statues
and reliefs, and a rose window that represents the wheel of fortune.
The culture is very important in Basel and its people, not only
the great number of museums but also the purchase of two expensive
Picasso by popular decision. In addition, each year a famous international
exhibition of art is celebrated.