Basel – the city on the banks of the Rhine – is known for its museums, carnival and high quality of life. But did you also know that Basel is the city with the highest density of museums in Switzerland? Or that it is home to the oldest university in Switzerland?
In this blog post, we reveal 15 fun facts about Basel that will surprise you. Immerse yourself in the city’s history and culture and discover hidden corners that are off the beaten track.
Are you ready for an exciting journey through Basel? Then let our fun facts inspire you and plan your next city trip to the city on the bend of the Rhine!
Fun facts about Basel that you didn’t know yet!
1. the city of museums
Basel is home to 40 museums in a very small area, including the famous Kunstmuseum Basel with works by Picasso, Rembrandt and Van Gogh. In fact, Basel is the city with the highest density of museums in Switzerland!
2. home of paper
Switzerland’s first paper mill was founded in Basel in 1573. The Basel Paper Museum tells the story of paper production and shows how important Basel was for the development of the paper industry.
3. chocolate city
Basel is a paradise for chocolate lovers. Every year, Basel hosts the “Basel Chocolate Fair”, the largest chocolate fair in Switzerland.
4. the oldest university in Switzerland
The University of Basel was founded in 1460 and is the oldest university in Switzerland. Many famous personalities have studied at the University of Basel, including Erasmus of Rotterdam and Paracelsus.
5th carnival stronghold
The Basel carnival is the biggest carnival in Switzerland. For three days, the locals celebrate with colourful costumes and Guggenmusik. The Basel carnival is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
6. unique location on the Rhine
Basel lies on the Rhine, which forms the border between Switzerland and Germany. Three national borders (Switzerland, Germany, France) meet in Basel.
7. city of pharmacy
Basel is an important centre for the pharmaceutical industry. Roche and Novartis, two of the largest pharmaceutical companies in the world, have their headquarters in Basel.
8th city of sport
Basel is a city with a passion for sport. FC Basel has won the Swiss championship eight times and the Swiss Cup three times.
9. quality of life
Basel is recognised as one of the cities with the highest quality of life in the world.
10. green spaces
Basel is a green city with many parks and green spaces. Basel Zoo is one of the oldest and most beautiful zoos in Switzerland. Basel Zoo is home to over 6,000 animals from 500 different species.
11th UNESCO World Heritage Site
Basel Town Hall is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
12. art in architecture
Basel is famous for its art in architecture. Sculptures and murals by well-known artists can be found throughout the city. The most famous work of art on buildings in Basel is the “Beyeler Fondation”, designed by architect Renzo Piano.
13th Baselbieter song
The Baselbieterlied is the unofficial anthem of the canton of Basel-Landschaft.
14. border triangle
Basel is an ideal starting point for excursions to Switzerland, Germany and France.
About Basel
Basel is a city in the north-west of Switzerland on the Rhine. The city of Basel is the capital of the canton of Basel-Stadt and the third-largest city in Switzerland. Basel borders Germany to the north and west and France to the east.
Basel is an important cultural and economic metropolis. The city is known for its numerous museums, its art and cultural scene, its pharmaceutical industry and its universities. Basel is also an important location for the financial sector and logistics.
Basel is a city with a long and rich history. The city was founded by the Romans in 44 BC. In the Middle Ages, Basel was an important trading city and a member of the Hanseatic League. In the 16th century, Basel became a centre of the Reformation.
Basel is a city with a high quality of life. The city offers its inhabitants a wide range of leisure and entertainment options, a well-developed infrastructure and a safe and clean environment.
The most important sights in Basel include
- Basel Minster: Basel Minster is a Gothic cathedral dating back to the 12th century.
- The town hall: Basel’s town hall is a late Gothic building from the 15th century.
- The market square: The market square is the central square in Basel and is surrounded by historic buildings.
- The Kunstmuseum Basel: The Kunstmuseum Basel houses a collection of artworks from the Middle Ages to the present day.
- The Fondation Be yeler: The Fondation Beyeler is a museum for modern and contemporary art.
- Basel Zoo: Basel Zoo is the oldest zoo in Switzerland.
Basel is a city that has a lot to offer. The city is an ideal destination for culture lovers, gourmets, shopping fans and nature lovers.
Bonus tip: Discover Basel with Foxtrail
Foxtrail is a unique and interactive scavenger hunt that offers visitors an innovative way to discover Basel and its sights. In this adventure, participants are guided through the city in teams, solving puzzles and deciphering clues to find the next location on their way. This experience is designed to not only encourage physical movement through the city, but also to challenge teamwork and logical thinking.
How does the Foxtrail in Basel work?
Starting point: Each Foxtrail begins at a designated starting point where teams receive their documents and initial clues. This marks the beginning of their adventure through Basel.
Solve puzzles: Participants have to solve various puzzles that lead them to hidden messages, unusual places and impressive sights in Basel. The puzzles are designed to encourage participants to take a closer look at their surroundings and engage with the city’s history and culture.
Team experience: Although Foxtrail can be experienced with family, friends or as a team-building activity with colleagues, the focus is on the shared experience. The tasks require communication and co-operation, which makes the whole thing a social experience.
Taking part in a Foxtrail in Basel gives visitors the opportunity to explore the city in a fun way. They not only discover the well-known sights, but also hidden corners and special places that are off the beaten track. At the same time, they learn interesting facts about Basel and its history, making the experience both educational and entertaining. Foxtrail thus offers a perfect combination of adventure, culture and fun, ideal for anyone who wants to discover Basel in a unique and interactive way.
