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Neighborhood · Berna, Berna
Matte
The old neighborhood of craftsmen and boatmen on the Aare’s bank, below the cathedral, with low houses, cafés and studios. The Mattelift, dating from 1897, links the Münsterplattform to the Badgasse.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Matte
The Matte lies on the lower part of the peninsula, adjacent to the Aare. For centuries it was the district of boatmen, fishermen and craftsmen, with mills powered by the river's water, while wealthier families lived on the upper part. The neighborhood was a busy port, and the Badgasse had public baths.
The houses are low and the streets narrow, with cafés, studios and small shops. The riverbank is the place for an unhurried stroll, away from the bustle of the upper town.
The neighborhood even has its own language, Mattenenglisch, which swaps syllable order and has nothing to do with English. It almost disappeared, and a residents' club keeps the tradition alive.
The Mattelift, opened in 1897, overcomes the 31.5 m difference in level between the Badgasse and the Münsterplattform, beside the cathedral, saving the climb on foot.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
About 30 minutes to an hour.
Best time
In the late afternoon, for a walk along the riverside, or in the European summer, when the bank fills up.
How to get there
From the Münsterplattform, descend via the Mattelift. You can also walk down the stairs and ramps that lead to the lower Altstadt.
Tip
Take the Mattelift down, walk along the riverside and return by walking up the Nydeggstalden toward the Bärenpark.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Matte
What is the Mattelift?
A public lift, from 1897, that connects the Münsterplattform to the Badgasse in the Matte, overcoming a 31.5 m difference in elevation.
What is the Mattenenglisch?
A secret local language that swaps the order of syllables. It has no relation to English.
Is the Matte far from the center?
No. It lies just below the cathedral, a few minutes from the Münsterplattform.