Berne - Parliament buildings Bundeshaus

Berne's Renaissance-style Bundeshaus (Parliament building), stands on the edge of the high ground above the Aare river. The domed central block (by H. Auer, 1896-1902) contains the two chambers of the Swiss Parliament (open to visitors), the meeting-places of the National Council and the Council of States; in the east wing (also by Auer, 1888-92) and west wing (by F. Studer, 1851-57) are various Federal agencies and the Federal library.

From the Bundesterrasse, which rests on massive retaining walls, there are fine views of the river Aare 48 m/157ft below (funicular into valley) and of the Alps beyond.