Erasmus walk
Erasmus of Rotterdam (about 1469–1536). Lived and taught from 1521 to 1529 and from 1535 in Basel, major humanist. Signposts: red on blue. Time required: about 30 minutes. Suitable for wheelchairs.
This short walk takes you up the Rheinsprung to the hill on which the cathedral (Münster) stands – the scene of major events in Basel’s history. With its position of strategic importance on the Rhine and clear views across the river, it has been the site of human occupation for 22 centuries. Both the Celts and Romans established settlements here, the remains of which can be seen to this day. In 1440, during the Council of Basel, Pope Felix V was elected here. Until the Reformation (1529), the cathedral hill also served as the residence of the prince bishop. Today, it is an attractive residential area of a more secular nature, as well as home to a number of administrative offices and museums. The cathedral square (Münsterplatz) – one of the most beautiful squares in Europe – is a place of peaceful tranquillity. However, during the numerous events which take place here in the course of the year (open-air cinema, autumn fair, concerts), it is transformed into a scene of lively festivity. The promontory on the river side of the cathedral commands a panoramic view, once enjoyed by kings and popes, that sweeps over the city and the Rhine as it changes course to flow north, and beyond to the hills of the Black Forest and the Vosges. Explore the cathedral, which boasts various Romanesque features that are still very well preserved, and the adjoining cloister with its tombs of famous Basel families. In the cathedral itself, numerous historical figures lie buried, including Erasmus of Rotterdam. The walk back to the bustle of the market square (Marktplatz) leads you down one of Basel’s main shopping streets, the Freie Strasse.