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Prison Tower, or in German Käfigturm, is a historical building used to imprison criminals who were to be interrogated. It is also a space for political discussion. It is considered an important historical place. And is listed as a World Cultural Heritage Site with UNESCO (UNESCO). This tower is considered a cultural property of national importance
Käfigturm located near the train station in Bern. capital city of Switzerland (Switzerland) which is considered one of the popular spots where many tourists come to take photos. It has astronomical clock. Zytglogge is a highlight for tourists to visit.
This tower has been demolished and rebuilt. making it a place with a long history It is known as a civic monument and is the capital's oldest monument. However, today the tower's selling point is the clock tower with trams passing below. It is considered a point that cannot be missed when visiting Bern.
History ofPrison Tower (Käfigturm)
The Käfigturm was built in 1256 as a defensive tower at the gates of Bern. Later, in 1405, it was destroyed by a great fire. It was repaired to become the Zytglogge (clock tower), which became the tower's signature, serving as a place to detain criminal suspects. Theft cases and being a place for interrogating prisoners In addition, confessions and court decisions were recorded here, making it often referred to by its name. “Tower Books”
for watches Zytglogge is uniquely created. And it is an astronomical clock designed to symbolize the stars. It is divided into three different time zones, with different hours of day and night depending on the time of year.
In 1641, the tower was dismantled and rebuilt on the same spot, providing additional convict space and serving as a prison for over two centuries. It was not until 1897 that all prisoners were transferred to a new prison that was built. and this tower became a storage place for the city of Bern.
Since 1999, the Käfigturm has been a symbol of democracy. It was used as a venue for exhibitions and activities on various political topics. Until 2017, it was established as a venue for political discussions (Political Forum Bern) and religious meetings as well.