Plizio Visual Lab
City Hall Basel
The Basel City Hall, located on the Marktplatz, is a striking red sandstone building that serves as the seat of government and parliament for the Canton of Basel-Stadt. Construction began in 1504, following Basel's entry into the Swiss Confederation in 1501, replacing a building destroyed in the 1356 earthquake. Its facade is renowned for its elaborate frescoes and decorative coats of arms, while the inner courtyard features murals that trace back to designs by Hans Holbein the Younger. Significant expansions occurred in the late 19th century, including the addition of the prominent tower and the rear wing to accommodate increasing administrative needs. The building is not only a functional political center but also a major historical monument showcasing late Gothic and Renaissance architectural styles. Today, it remains one of the most photographed landmarks in Switzerland, symbolizing the city's long-standing tradition of civic independence and wealth.
- Location: Switzerland
- Top sights: Naturhistorisches Museum Basel · Museum der Kulturen · Römische Umfassungmauer
- Nearby: Allschwil (4 km)
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 |
📋 Practical info
Geography
Facts
- Construction of the main building started in 1504.
- The structure is built from distinctive local red sandstone.
- Basel joined the Swiss Confederation in 1501 as the 11th member.
- The prominent clock tower was added later, between 1898 and 1904.
- Hans Holbein the Younger designed murals for the council chamber in 1521.
- The City Hall is situated at an elevation of 260 meters on the Marktplatz.
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 City Hall Basel (10)
Römische Umfassungmauer
Information point for the Roman wall, key available at the Basel Minster information desk.
Rathaus Basel
City hall of Basel, historic building on the market square.
The Beast Comedy Club
Comedy club in Basel, live performances by comedians.
Basler Marionettenthater
Puppet theatre in Basel, marionette shows for adults and children.
Gerbergässlein 14: Gerberbottich
Archaeological site, remains of a tanner's vat in Basel.
Martinskirche
Church in Basel, Evangelical Reformed place of worship.
Tachet
Gallery in Basel, exhibitions of contemporary art.
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Is the Basel town hall the red building?
What is the function of the Stadthaus?
Can visitors see the inner courtyard?
What's the best way to reach the Stadthaus?
Are there cultural events held there?
City Hall Basel: where is it located?
City Hall Basel: what is there to see?
City Hall Basel: when is the best time to visit?
City Hall Basel: why is it worth visiting?
Nearby cities
