Federal Palace Terrace

The Bundesterrasse is a raised public promenade behind the parliament building, set on a retaining wall high above the Aare. Laid out in the nineteenth century, it gives an open view across the river to the wooded Marzili slopes and, in fine weather, to the distant peaks of the Bernese Oberland including the Eiger and Jungfrau. A curious historic lift descends through the cliff to the riverside district below. The terrace is a quiet counterpoint to the busy arcaded streets, popular for a pause between sightseeing stops.