Zytglogge, Bern

Back in Bern’s early days, the clock tower served as the city gate. It was part of a defense wall that formed the city’s westernmost boundary and the fourth line of defense (the other three were the river).

The tower was constructed in the 13th century, and within forty years the boundaries shifted further west. Rather than fall into disuse, the tower was turned into a prison for prostitutes who serviced the clergy.

In the 1400’s, a fire devastated most of the city, including the tower. Like the rest of the buildings, the tower was rebuilt in stone. Other new features included a squat design and a clock, complete with astronomical and astrological devices. Believe it or not, soon after construction the clock failed and remained broken for over 100 years. This was surprising to me since you can’t turn around in Switzerland without seeing a proud display of expensive, precise timepieces.

A collection of mechanical bears, a rooster, a dancing jester and Chronos holding an hourglass give a completely lame hourly show.

Today, the clock tower is still important. It is the focal point of the city and the benchmark of official Bern time. Most impressively, it is from there that travel times indicated on stone markers along the cantonal roads.

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