based on 2,176 reviewsHigh walls built of red sandstone, roofs covered with colorful tiles, and towering twin spires—all these make the cathedral one of the important features of Basel. The crypt, choir, tomb of Erasmus of Rotterdam, Galluspforte, and two cloisters bear witness to the cathedral's centuries of history.
The history of Basel as a settlement began at Cathedral Hill. In the 1st century BC, Celts from the Rauricii tribe lived in a fortified "oppidum." Today, remnants of the "Celtic wall" can still be seen in the semi-subterranean windows on Rittergasse. In 15 BC, the Roman army built a military base on Cathedral Hill, located on the border between the Roman Empire and Germanic tribes. In the center of Münsterplatz, one can see a hidden Roman well that leads to the groundwater of the Rhine River.
In the late Roman Empire, Christianity was established in the Basel region. Existing documents record bishops coming to Basel from Augusta Raurica, a Roman republican city located approx. 10 km upstream on the Rhine River. In fact, the names of all bishops who have resided in Basel since the 8th century are now known.
Basel Cathedral dates back to the Carolingian dynasty; the building was destroyed in 917 when the Hungarians attacked the entire city. In the early 11th century, Henry II built a magnificent new church for Basel. During the 25 years at the end of the 12th century, the Henry-era church was replaced by a Romanesque building, and after the 1356 earthquake, it was renovated into a Gothic church.
Around Münsterplatz, the cathedral's canons built their own late Gothic residences, and the open space was used for commemorative processions, festivals, tournaments, and grand parades. In 1529, Basel became entirely Protestant. The bishop and canons left the city, and the empty residences of the canons were sold to wealthy merchants.
In the 18th century, the church was transformed into late Baroque and Neoclassical styles, while Münsterplatz became a quiet and prosperous residential area, later becoming the administrative center of Basel. Today, this magnificent square is used as a venue for various events and serves as an open space for people to meet.












Other visitors' reviews of Basel Cathedral
Show More ReviewsThere is a sundial on the wall outside the Basel Cathedral. This church has a very long history. What is unique is that there is a highland behind the church, next to the Rhine River. It is a good place to relax and rest. Many people sit here, eat lunch and enjoy the river view. We also sat here for a while and had something to eat.