Belp

Belp is a municipality in the canton of Bern, Switzerland. It belongs to the Bern-Mittelland district and lies just southeast of the city of Bern. The municipality includes the main village of Belp and several smaller settlements, with a landscape that combines agricultural land, forests, and residential areas.

Geography and demographics: Belp sits on a terrace above the Gürbe valley, offering views toward the Bernese Alps. The area is characterized by a mix of farming countryside and suburban development, with a population that comprises families, workers, and commuters connected to the nearby city of Bern.

Economy and infrastructure: A defining feature within Belp is Bern Airport, commonly known as Bern-Belp Airport, which lies on the municipality’s ground and serves as a regional air passenger and cargo facility. Beyond the airport, the local economy includes agriculture, light industry, and service-oriented businesses. The municipality is served by road connections to Bern and surrounding communities, along with local and regional public transportation options.

History and governance: Belp is governed by a municipal council (Gemeinderat) and a mayor, operating within the Swiss system of cantonal and municipal administration. The area has a long history of settlement typical of the Bern region, with development evolving through the 19th and 20th centuries as transport links and urban influence from Bern shaped the community.

Sights and culture: The municipality reflects a typical Swiss suburban-rural profile, combining historical village structures with modern housing and amenities. Belp serves as a residential and commercial hub for residents who work in Bern or nearby towns, while maintaining agricultural and local traditions.