Solothurn

Solothurn is the capital city of the canton of Solothurn in northwestern Switzerland. It lies on the Aare River at the foot of the Jura mountains, roughly midway between Basel and Bern. The city has about 18,000 residents and serves as the canton's administrative and cultural center.

Solothurn’s historic core reflects a long urban development from medieval times, with layers of Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque architecture. The site was inhabited in Roman times as Salodurum, and later grew as a ecclesiastical and civic center along the river crossing.

Notable landmarks include St. Ursen Cathedral, a prominent symbol of the city’s architectural heritage, and the nearby Jesuit Church. The old town is noted for its well-preserved arcaded streets and squares, which showcase the city’s multi-century evolution and its Baroque urban character.

Culture and events play a significant role in Solothurn. The city hosts the Solothurn Film Festival, one of Switzerland’s oldest film festivals, which attracts national and international visitors. Museums and cultural institutions contribute to the regional profile, alongside administrative functions that sustain the cantonal government and services.

In terms of transport, Solothurn is well connected by rail and road, with a main railway station linking to Basel, Bern and other Swiss destinations. The city’s compact size and rich architectural heritage make it a notable regional center for history, culture and administration in the Swiss plateau.