Bundeshaus

Bundeshaus, also known as the Federal Palace, is the seat of the Swiss federal parliament in Bern, Switzerland. It houses the two chambers of the Federal Assembly—the National Council (Nationalrat) and the Council of States (Ständerat)—as well as the Federal Council’s chancellery (Bundeskanzlei). The building stands on Bundesplatz in the Old City of Bern, overlooking the Aare River, and serves as a central hub of Switzerland’s federal institutions.

Construction of the Bundeshaus began in 1852 as part of establishing a dedicated home for the newly formed Swiss federation. The complex was completed in stages, with the main façades and wings finished around the turn of the 20th century; the building was primarily completed in 1902. The East and West wings were added to accommodate the expanding functions of Parliament. The structure reflects a historicist architectural style with neoclassical influences, and it houses the principal plenary chambers as well as numerous committee rooms and offices.

A major renovation and modernization took place from the early 2000s to 2008, focusing on safety, accessibility, energy efficiency, and updated parliamentary facilities while preserving the building’s historic character. The Bundeshaus remains a symbol of Swiss federalism and direct democracy; parliamentary sessions are generally open to the public, and guided tours and observing debates are available.

Culturally and politically, the Bundeshaus stands as the legislative heart of Switzerland, coordinating the work of the National Council and Council of States and housing the administrative functions of the Federal Chancellery.