Münsterplatz

The Münsterplatz

The Basel audio-guided tour leads you to the Münsterplatz, one of the oldest and most important squares of the city. This large paved space, dominated by the cathedral, has been the historic heart of Basel for centuries.

Two thousand years of history

Long before the Middle Ages, the hill was occupied by Celts, then by Romans, which makes this place a central point of local life for more than two thousand years. In the Middle Ages, the square became the main market of Basel; its paving dates largely from the fourteenth and fifteenth centuries. The earthquake of 1356 left a landscape of ruins there before its reconstruction. In 1798, during the Helvetic Revolution, a tree of liberty was planted there. Today, the square is surrounded by former canons' houses and fine historic dwellings.

What there is to see

Vast and harmonious, the Münsterplatz is dominated by the cathedral and lined with old dwellings. It remains a lively place, hosting important events such as the Basel carnival, during which the large lanterns are exhibited there, or the Christmas market in winter. On the other side of the square, the Basler Marionetten Theater, installed in a vaulted cellar, perpetuates a tradition of puppet shows.

Practical information

The Münsterplatz is in the heart of the old town of Basel, in front of the cathedral. It is a public space freely accessible at all hours and on the level. The neighbouring puppet theatre follows its own performance hours.

Since when has the Münsterplatz been inhabited?

For more than two thousand years: the hill was occupied by the Celts, then by the Romans, before becoming the heart of the medieval city.

What events does the Münsterplatz host?

The Basel carnival, where the large lanterns are exhibited, as well as the Christmas market in winter, among others.