Plizio Visual Lab
Moutier
Moutier is situated in a broad valley basin of the Bernese Jura and is historically closely linked to the Moutier-Grandval Abbey, which was founded as early as the 7th century. This ecclesiastical institution remained the defining center of the region for centuries. With the industrial revolution in the 19th century, the town fundamentally transformed into a hub for the metalworking industry and watchmaking. Of particular note is the invention of the automatic lathe by the Tornos company, which brought worldwide fame to Moutier in the mechanical engineering industry. Geographically, the town is surrounded by the striking Jura mountain chains and provides spectacular natural experiences through the Gorges du Pichoux and the Gorges de Moutier. In recent years, town politics have been shaped by the question of cantonal affiliation, with the population ultimately voting to join the Canton of Jura. Culturally, Moutier features a wide range of attractions, including the Museum of Fine Arts and a lively music scene. The architecture in the town center reflects the industrial boom of the 19th and early 20th centuries, complemented by modern residential districts. Moutier remains an important workplace for the region and a symbol of Swiss innovative power in precision engineering.
- Location: Switzerland
- Top sights: Château du Moutier · Musee Jurassien des Arts · Grotte des Suédois
- Nearby: Delémont (9 km)
- Population: ~7.373
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 0 | 0 | 4 | 9 | 13 | 17 | 19 | 18 | 14 | 10 | 4 | 0 |
| Rain mm | 75 | 60 | 74 | 75 | 118 | 105 | 107 | 110 | 79 | 94 | 77 | 87 |
Geography
Facts
- Abbey foundation in the 7th century
- Pioneer of automatic lathes by Tornos 1880
- Elevation of 530 meters above sea level
- Population of approximately 7373 residents
- Significant Museum of Fine Arts
- Vote for cantonal transfer in 2021
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Moutier (15)
Musée du tour automatique et d'histoire de Moutier🏛 museum
Museum of automatic lathes and local history in Moutier, near Münster.
Frequently asked questions
Moutier: where is it located?
Moutier: what is there to see?
Moutier: when is the best time to visit?
Moutier: why is it worth visiting?
Nearby cities
