Solothurn Cathedral

About

Standing high above Solothurn, the bright white stone facade of the cathedral, crowned with a triangular pediment, can’t help but command attention from the city below. Originally operating as a collegiate church, it was raised to a cathedral in 1828 and became a Bishop's seat as well as a parish church. Visitors today can begin by climbing the exterior staircase, lined with Roman-style fountains, and appreciate the impressive facade before entering the building. Once inside, attention is drawn to the high altar built of light Solothurn marble, as well as the impressive organ above. For those who don’t mind tackling about 300 steps, a climb to the top of the 66 meter high tower is well worth the effort. Visitors can see several large church bells while ascending the staircase, and are rewarded with a beautiful panoramic view of the surrounding valley and countryside once at the top.