Bern

13 April/08 - Bern, the capital city of Switzerland is named after the Bear. The river Aare flows around the old town - very pretty sight. Water was very clean and clear. We arrived on a Sunday, most shops were closed except for the McDonald's - had breakfast there. Wandered through the arcaded buildings of the old town (a UNESCO World Heritage site), gazed at the clock tower (dates back from 1530), took photos of the fountains, strolled along the little park next to the towering cathedral and then made our way up the Rose Garden for fabulous view of this fine city.

UNESCO description - "Founded in the 12th century on a hill site surrounded by the Aare River, Berne developed over the centuries in line with a an exceptionally coherent planning concept. The buildings in the Old City, dating from a variety of periods, include 15th-century arcades and 16th-century fountains. Most of the medieval town was restored in the 18th century but it has retained its original character."