A day in fribourg

Quiet streets, endless staircases, and a place that feels almost forgotten—welcome to Fribourg, Switzerland’s hidden gem !!

1 - The Saint-Nicolas Cathedral

The cathedral is a stunning example of Gothic architecture, built between the 13th and 15th centuries. Its towering spire dominates the city skyline, offering breathtaking views for those who climb to the top.

Inside, intricate stained-glass windows fill the nave with colorful light, telling biblical stories in vivid detail. The cathedral’s stone carvings, ornate altars, and chapels showcase the craftsmanship and devotion of medieval artisans. Beyond its architectural beauty, it remains a living center of worship and cultural heritage, hosting concerts and local events throughout the year.

Saint-Nicolas Cathedral

2 - Espace Jean Tinguely – Niki de Saint Phalle

The space is a total explosion of color and imagination. Niki's sculptures pop with energy, and just next door, Tinguely’s machines clatter, grind, and spin like a joyful mechanical orchestra. The noise, chaos, and motion make you laugh, jump, and marvel all at once a total contrast to the silent streets outside.

 

"Retable de l'abondance et du mercantilisme"

The Espace Jean Tinguely – Niki de Saint Phalle was established through the vision and generosity of Niki de Saint Phalle, who sought to honor her late partner, Jean Tinguely who passed in 1991. Niki de Saint Phalle took on the responsibility of preserving and promoting his artistic contributions.

Her dedication culminated in the donation of 55 of his large-scale works to the newly established Tinguely Museum in Basel in 1996, ensuring that his innovative kinetic sculptures would remain accessible to the public.

Niki donate also several of her own works to the canton, including 22 reliefs from her Remembering collection, created in the late 1990s. These vibrant pieces, along with other artworks, were integrated into the museum's collection, enriching the cultural landscape of Fribourg.

3 - The endless stairs

Fribourg, Switzerland, is famous for its endless staircases that connect the upper and lower parts of the medieval city. Built to navigate the city’s steep hills and cliffs above the Sarine River, these stone stairways have existed for centuries, some dating back to the Middle Ages. Certain staircases, like the Grand Escalier, feature over 300 steps, offering both a practical route and a chance for breathtakingviews of the rooftops and river below. They were originally vital for connecting neighborhoods, facilitating daily movement, and even for defensive purposes in medieval times. Today, climbing these staircases is both a workout and a journey through history, rewarding visitors with unique perspectives of Fribourg’s charming streets and architecture.