Bear Pit

The Bear Pit (Bärengraben) in Bern is a unique blend of living history and local tradition, located at the eastern edge of the Old Town near the Nydegg Bridge and the River Aare. Bears have been a symbol of Bern since at least 1513, and legend has it that the city itself was named after a bear encountered by its founder, Duke Berthold V. The bear appears on Bern’s coat of arms and city flag, and the Bear Pit has been a focal point for this tradition since it opened in 1857.

Today, the historic pit is part of a larger, modern Bear Park (BärenPark), which opened in 2009 and offers a more natural environment for the bears. The park covers 6,000 square meters of green, hilly terrain, complete with caves and a “Bear Bath” along the riverbank. Visitors can observe the bears as they roam, swim, or rest in their spacious habitat. The original pit remains accessible and is still used by the bears, providing a glimpse into the site’s long history.

The Bear Park is open year-round, free of charge, and accessible around the clock. Wheelchair users can reach all areas via a lift. Guided tours are available, offering insights into the bears’ lives and the cultural significance of the site. Dogs must be kept on a lead, and feeding the bears is not allowed. A typical visit lasts two to four hours, making it a rewarding stop for those interested in Bern’s heritage and its living symbols.