Basel Town Hall
Basel-Stadt
Basel Town Hall, locally known as Rathaus Basel or Roothuus, is a prominent historic building located in the heart of Basel's Marktplatz. Constructed between 1504 and 1514 following Basel's accession to the Swiss Confederation, it features a distinctive red sandstone facade and a striking tower. The building houses the meetings of the Cantonal Parliament and the Cantonal Government of Basel-Stadt. Its architecture blends late Gothic and Renaissance elements with later Neogothic and Neorenaissance additions from the early 20th century. The Great Council Chamber was once adorned with frescoes by Hans Holbein the Younger, fragments and preparatory sketches of which are preserved in Basel's Kunstmuseum. The town hall’s courtyard and facade display various sculptures and paintings, including works by Hans Bock the Elder and a statue of Lucius Munatius Plancus by Hans Michel. Today, the building remains a vibrant political center and a symbol of Basel’s rich heritage, combining historical significance with architectural beauty.
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Tipp: Visit Basel Town Hall during weekdays when the Cantonal Parliament is in session to experience the lively political atmosphere. The best time to visit is spring through early autumn when the Marktplatz is bustling with markets and events. Advance booking is recommended for guided tours, which provide detailed insights into the building's history and art. Visitors may benefit from reduced rates for groups, students, and seniors. Check the official Basel-Stadt website for current opening hours and any special events.
Interessante Fakten
- •The red sandstone facade inspired the local nickname 'Roothuus,' a pun meaning both 'council house' and 'red house' in Basel German dialect.
- •Hans Holbein the Younger painted frescoes in the Great Council Chamber in 1522, though they have been lost; fragments and drawings survive in the Kunstmuseum.
- •A statue of Lucius Munatius Plancus from 1580 by Hans Michel stands in the town hall courtyard.
- •The clock on the facade was crafted by Master Wilhelm in 1511.
- •The facade features reliefs of child warriors and victory angels, symbolizing Basel’s historical pride and judicial role.
Geschichte
The site of Basel Town Hall has been the city's political center since 1290.
The original building was destroyed in the 1356 Basel earthquake, leading to the construction of the 'Palace of the Lords.' Following Basel's entry into the Swiss Confederation in 1501, the current late Gothic central building was constructed between 1504 and 1514 to symbolize this union.
The Great Council Chamber was decorated by Hans Holbein the Younger in 1521.
The building underwent expansions and renovations in the early 17th century and again between 1898 and 1904, incorporating Neogothic and Neorenaissance styles.
A major restoration was completed in 1982.
Today, it continues to serve as the seat of the cantonal government and parliament.
OrtsfĂĽhrer
Great Council Chamber1522
Originally decorated with frescoes by Hans Holbein the Younger in 1522, the chamber served as the main meeting room for the cantonal parliament. Though the frescoes are lost, fragments and sketches are preserved in the Kunstmuseum.
Interior Courtyard1580
A richly decorated courtyard featuring sculptures and paintings, including a statue of Lucius Munatius Plancus by Hans Michel (1580) and artworks by Hans Bock the Elder.
Facade and TowerEarly 20th century (tower), 1901 (painting)
The red sandstone facade is adorned with reliefs of child warriors, victory angels, and the Basel coat of arms. The tower, added in the early 20th century, features a painting by Wilhelm Balmer depicting banner bearer Hans Bär.
Kontakt
Telefon: 061 267 81 81