Hauptpost

The former Hauptpost

The Basel audio-guided tour presents you with the former Hauptpost, the main post office of the city, whose history goes back to the Middle Ages and which illustrates the cohabitation of heritage and contemporary architecture.

From medieval warehouse to post office

The original structure was built between 1376 and 1378 as a commercial warehouse, at a time when the area was already an important place of exchange. The building is moreover located above the Birsig, a small river now canalised under the old town. In 1853, it became the central post office of Basel and remained so for nearly one hundred and seventy years, seeing countless letters and parcels pass through. The postal services closed in 2021, giving way to a vast transformation project led by the Basel architects Herzog & de Meuron.

What there is to see

The former Hauptpost is distinguished by its imposing architecture, inherited from several centuries of history. Its renovation aims to preserve its past while adapting it to modern uses: in time, one will find there shops, restaurants, offices and a public passage linking the Freie Strasse to the Gerbergasse. It is a fine example of the way Basel makes medieval heritage and contemporary architecture cohabit.

Practical information

The former Hauptpost is in the centre of Basel, along the Freie Strasse. Its architecture can be contemplated from the street; being the subject of a transformation project, its uses and its access are evolving, and it is appropriate to inquire on site about the spaces open to the public.

When was the former Hauptpost built?

Its original structure dates from 1376-1378, as a commercial warehouse; it became the central post office of Basel in 1853.

What will the former Hauptpost become?

Renovated by Herzog & de Meuron, it will host shops, restaurants, offices and a public passage, combining heritage and modern uses.