Basel Minster (Cathedral) Basler Münster in Switzerland
Our Europe vacation – After a night’s halt at Waldorf we set off on the road trip to Basel in Switzerland. Basel Minster (Basler Münster in German) is the first main landmark we saw during our self planned walking tour of Basel old town.
The Münster is listed as a heritage site of national significance in Switzerland. Basel Cathedral’s steeples were visible from a distance and with that as focus we took the lane leading to it. Very soon we were at the Cathedral’s doors.
You can see my Europe Vacation Itinerary here: Europe Road Trip Plan
Basel Minster Cathedral – notice the white part in the base of north tower? They are the surviving part of the old cathedral that existed before the earthquake.
Basel Cathedral History and Timeline
It has a fascinating tale of construction over a period of several centuries. History of Basel Minster traces back to late Celtic Era in first century BC. The hill on which the Minster is located today was a Celtic fortified city. It is presumed that there was a small temple at the spot of today’s position of the Minster from that period.
- Early Romanesque style of the cathedral was built by order of Bishop Adalberto II (approx. 999 – 1025). It was also called Adalberto Cathedral then.
- Foundations of Basel Munster are dated to be from 9th century
- In 1019 it was consecrated as a cathedral by Henry II
- It was then named Heinrich Münster after its patron Emperor Henry II, in German “Heinrich”.
- More additions, alterations, and reconstructions of this cathedral in late Romanesque and early Gothic style continued through the 12th and 13th centuries.
- In 1356 Basel earthquake destroyed much of the building
- After the earthquake it was rebuilt by Johannes Gmünd.
- It was originally a Catholic Church and is now a Protestant Church.
Some of the remains of the old cathedral that existed at the spot are visible under glass panes inside Basel Munster.
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- Ancient and medieval remains of Basel Munster1
Basel Minster Architecture and Interesting Facts
Built of dark red sandstone, Basel Minster facade looks beautiful. Part of it was under covers when we visited. It seemed as if one more phase of alteration was on.
The roof tiles of Basel Munster even more attractive with its bright green color. The roof is at a slope such that snow doesn’t accumulate during winters. Something similar to Vienna Cathedral.
Colorful Basel Munster roof tiles
Originally Basel Minster had 5 steeples, but after the earthquake it was rebuilt with only 2 steeples. The northern tower is called Georgsturm (64.2 m) and the southern tower is called Martinsturm (62.7 m). Parts of the towers still belong to the original structure. You can see the lower brighter part of northern steeple Georgstrum in the first picture.
Both the steeples are accessed by 242 stairs. Views of the Basel town below are mesmerizing I had read, but lack of time I had to skip climbing it.
North Tower of Basel cathedral is called Georgsturm (64.2 m)
Basel Munster Interior
The cathedral is a mix of Gothic exteriors and Romanesque interiors. Not many elaborate carvings inside, but the stain glass windows are breath taking. Such colors and contrasts, the series depict the Crucifixion and Resurrection of Christ. These stain glass art date from the nineteenth century onward.
Inside there was a very old painting of Basilisk, the fearful mythological creature. In fact later as we took tour of old town of Basel we found statues of this mythical animal. Check here: Is Basilisk Mythological or Real?
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- Baselisk in Basel Minster1
Facade of Basel Church
The southern facade of the church has several interesting statues. The sculpted image below is that of Emperor Henry II, depicted as a young and beardless man carrying a church model in his arms.
The towers are named after Georg and Martin, saints of the knights. Statues of both saints are depicted by corresponding equestrian sculptures either side of the main entrance upon high pilasters on the respective towers.
A mechanical clock and a sundial located on north tower of the Basel cathedral.
Open Timings of Basel Minster Cathedral
Monday to Saturday the Basel cathedral is open from 10 AM to 5 PM. On Sundays the cathedral is open from 11.30 AM to 5 PM. No tickets are required to enter the cathedral.
Tips to Visit Basel Munster
- Carry a torch especially if you are travelling with small kids, some parts are dark.
- The staircase is tight and steep – not suitable for someone with weak knees and fear of heights.
- Best time to visit Basel Cathedral would be spring and summers and early autumn too for gorgeous views of the town around and the colorful tiles of the roof of the cathedral.
- Winters would be ideal for the charming Christmas market in the piazza just outside the church.
- Needless to say avoid Sunday morning unless you want to attend the prayers.
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Very informative post with beautiful photos. The stained glass windows are gorgeous!
One of the things I check out when I go to this place is the stained glass. They are so beautiful!
Beautiful, I love the color of these windows.
Yes, glass windows are amazingly beautiful!! I imagine the sun light goes through these glass windows. It must be the heaven appearing in this world.
Have a great day!
A beautiful church indeed! The colorful glass windows are my favorite! lovely captures of the place!
My World is here.
Stunning windows.
The stained glass windows are so attractive.
Good photos and a lovable speech.
stained glass is beautiful! love your first photo.
fabulous………
great pics
Beautiful photos, Indrani.
— K
Kay, Alberta, Canada
An Unfittie's Guide to Adventurous Travel
Your photos capture the wonder of this place. I marvel at what was accomplished before modern times and modern equipment.
It is a beautiful cathedral. The staned glass is gorgeous and the statues are impressive. Wonderful photos, Indrani!
It is a beautiful cathedral. The staned glass is gorgeous and the statues are impressive. Wonderful photos, Indrani!
It is very impressive inside and out.
http://www.ewok1993.wordpress.com
A beautiful Cathedral!! Boom & Gary of the Vermilon River, Canada.
The artwork in old cathedrals is certainly amazing.
It is unique to see a statue with a church replica in hand. Also, love the stain glassed windows, especially the circular one that has petal shapes reminding me of a flower.
Lovely pictures from your last trip through Europe.
greetings, Joop
and thanks for your nice comments.
Those windows are stunning!
Its very beautiful historic art 🙂
And always with many interesting info
:))
Beautiful cathedral, terrific captures and you always add to the photos with the information you share with us, Indrani! Hope you have a wonderful week!
Sylvia
The cathedral is very beautiful and interesting information you provided.