Bern, the Swiss capital, is known for its rich cultural and architectural heritage. However, the region also hides fascinating abandoned sites, perfect for urban exploration or urbex enthusiasts. These places, often hidden and mysterious, offer a unique dive into the past. Here is a selection of the five best must-see urbex sites to discover around Bern.
1. The Abandoned Chocolate Factory of Worb
Located about 15 km from Bern, the Abandoned Chocolate Factory in Worb is a real treasure for urban explorers. Closed for decades, this factory was once a popular chocolate production site. Today, its dilapidated buildings and rusty machinery offer an atmosphere that is both nostalgic and intriguing.
Site Features
- Infrastructure: Production halls, warehouses, offices.
- State of Disrepair: Moderate, with some collapsed areas.
- Access: Relatively easy, but requires caution.
2. Münsingen Psychiatric Hospital
About 20 km from Bern, the Abandoned Psychiatric Hospital in Münsingen is an urbex site full of history. Built in the early 20th century, this facility once housed patients suffering from mental disorders. Today, the deserted buildings, abandoned rooms and dilapidated treatment rooms offer a fascinating and unsettling exploration experience.
Site Features
- Infrastructure: Pavilions, treatment rooms, bedrooms.
- State of Disrepair: Advanced, with dangerous areas.
- Access: Restricted, some areas under surveillance.
3. The Abandoned Quarry of Belp
The Abandoned Quarry of Belp , located about fifteen kilometers from Bern, is an outdoor urbex site that attracts nature-loving explorers. This vast space, once used for stone extraction, is now overgrown with vegetation, creating a striking contrast between industry and nature.
Site Features
- Infrastructure: Caves, tunnels, open spaces.
- State of Disrepair: Moderate, with some tunnels being unstable.
- Access: Easy, although some areas should be avoided.
4. The Abandoned Hindelbank Castle
The Abandoned Hindelbank Castle , about 30 km from Bern, is an urbex site that attracts with its medieval history and picturesque ruins. Although partially restored, the castle retains sections inaccessible to the public, offering an intriguing exploration for urbex enthusiasts.
Site Features
- Infrastructure: Towers, ramparts, abandoned rooms.
- State of Disrepair: Moderate, some parts closed.
- Access: Restricted, but possible with precautions.
5. The Disused Flamatt Railway Tunnel
About twenty kilometers from Bern, the Disused Flamatt Railway Tunnel is a particularly interesting urbex site for those who like underground explorations. This tunnel, once used by the railway, is now abandoned and offers a unique atmosphere, plunged into darkness and silence.
Site Features
- Infrastructure: Long tunnel, abandoned railway tracks.
- State of Disrepair: Stable, but damp and dark.
- Access: Relatively easy, but a flashlight is essential.
Conclusion
The Bern region is full of fascinating urbex sites, each offering a unique experience. Whether you are drawn to old factories, abandoned hospitals, or forgotten tunnels, these places invite you to discover a hidden heritage, where each visit is a dive into history. Remember to respect these sites during your explorations, ensuring that their condition is preserved for future adventurers.
