Kornhausplatz & Kornhaus

Overview

The Kornhaus is a monumental baroque granary built between 1711 and 1718 on Kornhausplatz. Its vast vaulted cellar (Kornhauskeller), painted with allegorical murals, is now one of Bern's grandest restaurant spaces, while the upper floors host the city's Forum for Media & Design.

Highlights

• Kornhauskeller Cellar: A double-height, frescoed basement renowned as one of Europe's most beautiful restaurant rooms.
• Forum for Media & Design: Exhibition space on the upper floors with rotating design, photography, and media shows.
• Kornhausplatz Square: The lively square outside is home to the Kindlifresserbrunnen fountain and a tram hub.

History

Built as a communal granary to store the city's grain reserves, the Kornhaus was one of the largest public buildings in 18th-century Bern. The cellar frescoes, painted by various Bernese artists, depict idealized harvest scenes and cantonal coats of arms. The building was repurposed for cultural use in the 20th century.

Visitor Tips

• Tip 1: Peek into the Kornhauskeller even if you don't dine — the vaulted painted ceiling is extraordinary.
• Tip 2: The building is free to enter; exhibitions on the upper floors charge a small fee.
• Duration: 20–30 minutes.