Baselland doesn’t just boast a landscape. Also showcases a rich array of cultural and historical treasures. The area seamlessly blends beauty, with a cultural legacy inviting visitors to explore the local culinary delights as well as delve into the areas vibrant history and culture.
The scenic beauty of Baselland makes it a great destination, for enthusiasts interested in activities like hiking, biking and sightseeing. With its rolling hills, dense forests, serene rivers and beautiful lakes the area offers a tapestry of wonders.
Moreover Basel Country boasts a heritage with its historic castles, majestic palaces and quaint villages waiting to be discovered.
History buffs can delve into the past by exploring sites such as Augusta Raurica, the open air archaeological museum, in north western Switzerland.
1. Augusta Raurica – a journey back in time to Roman times
Augusta Raurica, named after the tribe and the Roman emperor Augustus thrived with a population of around 20,000, at its peak. The city boasted a mix of workshops, trading posts, taverns, temples and public baths situated closely together.
Thanks to the lack of development in the area during the Middle Ages and modern era Augusta Raurica has been remarkably well preserved. The museum showcases an array of discoveries, including the largest collection of silver artifacts from late antiquity.
Visitors can explore animal breeds at the domestic animal park and gain insights into the daily lives of people during the time of Christ’s birth, through the town’s remains.
2. Goetheanum
The Goetheanum located in Dornach 10 kilometers south of Basel houses the renowned School of Spiritual Science and the Anthroposophical Society. The School of Spiritual Science comprises eleven sections engaged in research, development, teaching and practical application of their discoveries with the support of the Anthroposophical Society.
At the Goetheanum, a variety of events take place, including lectures, specialized gatherings, significant international conferences and performances, by both the schools groups and visiting artists in eurythmy, theater, puppetry and music.
3. Arlesheim Cathedral
The famous Arlesheim Cathedral was consecrated in 1681. Church services and other religious events are held here regularly.
When you explore the cathedral you not get to appreciate the architecture but also enjoy the melodic tunes produced by Switzerlands last remaining Silbermann organ that is still playable. Additionally there are concerts and guided tours offered at the cathedral providing visitors with a glimpse, into the captivating realm of music and the cathedrals rich history.
A Silbermann organ refers to an instrument constructed by members of the Silbermann family during the 18th centuries. The Silbermanns were a known lineage of organ builders active in Germany and recognized for crafting top notch instruments boasting exceptional acoustics.
The distinctive features of Silbermann organs include workmanship, precise tuning and a rich resonant sound quality. These organs were commonly installed in churches, concert venues and significant edifices due, to their precision and sonorous beauty.
4. Wildenstein Castle
The Wildenstein Castle, situated near the complex, in the village of Burg im Leimental stands out as the sole hilltop castle in the Basel region that remained inhabited until recently. Nestled to the south of Bubendorf in a side valley of the Hintere Frenke this castle is a leisurely hours stroll away from Bubendorf railway station.
Since 1994 Wildenstein Castle has been under the ownership of Canton Basel Landschaft. The encompassing area, which includes a nature reserve boasting centuries oak trees serves as a popular spot for outings and beckons visitors to enjoy peaceful walks.
Covering a 112 hectares Wildenstein Castle and its neighboring nature reserve stand as remnants of a medieval cultural landscape; some ancient features are still visible today. Of interest are the oaks, within Witwald, some dating back half a millennium. The gardens surrounding the castle also exude an old world charm of eras.
5. Bottmingen Castle
The Bottmingen Castle, situated in the town of Bottmingen, in Switzerland near Basel is a castle with a surrounding moat. It stands out as one of the preserved castles in the country. Historical records trace its origins back to 1363 when it was owned by the chamberlains a family serving the bishop. Believed to be its original builders.
Constructed in the century this castle is enveloped by water. Set amidst a charming park. Recent renovations have enhanced its charm creating an ambiance. The castle features banquet halls of hosting up to 145 guests making it an ideal venue, for various occasions including corporate functions, exquisite weddings and celebratory events.
At Restaurant Schloss Bottmingen guests can savor gourmet dishes crafted by chef Gilles Brunin and pastry chef Alain Schmidlin. The restaurant has earned accolades with 15 points from the Gault Millau guide. Additionally visitors can enjoy al fresco dining on the inviting terrace during days.
Video Best-of-Baselland-Compilation
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Video Basel Country from the air
On behalf of Baselland Tourism, a film helicopter circled over the Basel region for a day on August 21, 2013. The company “A day in Baselland” features 15 minutes of successful footage of castles and palaces, the most beautiful landscapes and sights, as well as many of Basel’s municipalities.
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