Bern

The city of Bern was founded in 1191 by Berthold V, Duke of Zähringen. This founding was part of a strategic move to expand territories and a reflection of the medieval urban planning of the era. The city quickly grew in importance due to its strategic location and eventually became a central power in Switzerland, playing a critical role in the region's history, economy, and culture.

In 1255, Bern received a significant cultural and religious asset - the 'Münstermünster' bell, which was gifted to the Bernese Münster. This bell symbolizes the burgeoning spiritual life of the city during the 13th century and is a testament to the city's growing importance as a center of ecclesiastical and civic influence.

In 1353, Bern joined the Swiss Confederation, becoming one of its members. This was a crucial moment for the city as joining the confederation provided protection and mutual support within what came to be known as the Swiss Eidgenossenschaft. Over the centuries, the Swiss Confederation has developed into what today is a federal state, and Bern played a significant role in its development and expansion.

The construction of the iconic Zytglogge, a landmark medieval clock tower in Bern, was completed in 1533. An architectural marvel and a central historical structure in Bern, the Zytglogge has served various functions including being a guard tower, a prison, and most notably, a public clock. Its astronomical clock is an intricate work of medieval engineering, making it a lasting symbol of Bern's rich heritage.

The Reformation in Bern was formally adopted on June 12, 1536, marking a major religious and cultural shift in the city. This event saw Bern convert to Protestantism, influenced by reformers such as Huldrych Zwingli and later John Calvin. This conversion played a significant role in the spread of Protestant beliefs throughout Switzerland and in establishing Bern as a center for Protestant ideology.

In 1848, following the civil war known as the Sonderbund War, Switzerland underwent a political and constitutional transformation, notably adopting a new constitution. This year marked a significant turning point as Bern was chosen as the Federal City of Switzerland, a decision that shaped its future role as the administrative center of the nation, essentially making it the de facto capital of Switzerland.

The Federal Palace of Switzerland in Bern, home to the Swiss Federal Assembly and Federal Council, was inaugurated on July 18, 1902. Designed by architect Hans Wilhelm Auer, the building is located in Bundesplatz, Bern, and is a central part of the Swiss government. The inauguration of the Federal Palace marked a pivotal moment in solidifying Bern's status as the focal point of Swiss politics.

On August 3, 1914, shortly after the outbreak of World War I, General Ulrich Wille was appointed the Commander-in-Chief of the Swiss Army. Although Switzerland remained neutral throughout the war, the mobilization and leadership under Wille highlighted Bern's strategic importance during times of military and political tensions in Europe.

On June 19, 1969, the city of Bern hosted discussions that played a key role in the development and updating of the Berne Convention for the Protection of Literary and Artistic Works. This international agreement, initially conceived in Bern in 1886, establishes guidelines to protect the copyright and rights of authors across many nations, underlining Bern's long-standing influence in international cultural and legal circles.

On December 9, 1983, the historic old town of Bern was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage site due to its well-preserved medieval townscape and exceptional architectural and urban planning dating back to the high Middle Ages. The Old City of Bern reflects the development and planning characteristic of 12th-century urban development, which makes it an outstanding example of a coherent medieval city structure.