What Is Basel and What Makes It So Desirable?

Basel is a city located in the north-western corner of Switzerland, near the border of Germany and France. Founded in the 11th century it has since grown to be one of the main cultural and economic centres in the region. From its cobbled streets and picturesque bridges to its world-renowned trade fair, Basel has been repeatedly ranked among the top cities in Europe. This reputation has earned the city many nicknames, all of whom reflect on Basel’s long history and vibrant culture. The most common ones are “The City of Three Cultures’, “The Museum City’, and “Small Rome’. But what exactly makes Basel so desirable and why should you visit?

Culture and Attractions

Basel is divided into two parts: Kleinbasel (Little Basel) and Grossbasel (Large Basel) with the Rhine River dividing them. Both are equipped with countless attractions in the form of museums, cathedrals, galleries and monuments. Structures such as the Tinguely Fountain and the town’s two towers–the Münster and Martinturm–provide a picturesque overview of the city from afar. Meanwhile, within its quarters, a colourful collection of streets showcases the local culture and livelihoods of the city in all its splendour. Here, one can observe daily life as it has been for centuries; bakers selling treats, butchers hanging their cuts of meat and florists arranging their finest bouquets. In terms of museums and galleries, Basel hosts an abundance of them – some unique, some world-famous. The Kunstmuseum Basel, located in Grossbasel along Kaserngässlein, is famous for its huge collection of Fine Arts. In fact, the museum is thought to hold the largest public collection of works by Holbein, a German master painter who lived in Basel during his later years. Collecting over 7000 pieces of work spread through 15 different sections, the Kunstmuseum is guaranteed to bring awe to anyone who visits. Additionally, visiting Basel can also grant the opportunity to visit ArtBasel and DesignMiami fairs, two huge international events that attract hundreds of thousands to Basel’s yearly exhibitions. Both ArtBasel and DesignMiami boast extensive collections of artworks from all around the world and offer insightful lectures by prominent leaders in contemporary art. To capture more of the local culture, visitors must attend some of Basel’s bigger yearly events such as Fasnacht – known as “the biggest folk festival in Switzerland’. It is a carnival which features elaborately decorated puppets that parade around town playing music and clowns performing on decorated floats. It is said that some festival-goers participate wearing masks and costumes dating back to pre-modern Europe! Likewise, the Bird Market or Vögeligärtchen hosts a unique ambience by hosting a market full of exotic pet birds every Tuesday morning at Burgfelderplatz.

Living in Basel

Basel has a strong economy fuelled by its multinational companies such as Novartis AG and Hoffmann-La Roche pharmaceuticals as well as its renowned banking sector. With an unemployment rate sitting below 2%, Basel also offers employment opportunities at its many schools, theatres and museums. The cost of living in Basel is relatively high compared to other cities in Switzerland. Accommodation prices can range from $1000 USD per month for basic one-roomed apartments up to $3000 USD for larger two-roomed apartments depending on their location. Rent prices should be taken into account when it comes to budgeting for a move to Basel. However, when weighing up the pros and cons of settling there permanently one can consider access to healthcare services which is outstanding due to its well-defined maintenance plans for different conditions as well as its highly qualified medical staff. Furthermore, basing yourself in Basel has numerous advantages like having public transportation catering for every corner of the city and attending any one of its numerous universities such as the University of Basel – founded in 1460 – or Fachhochschule Nordwestschweiz (FHNW). Both universities offer courses such as medicine, life sciences, mathematics and engineering which suit any budget due to their different tuition fees.

Conclusion

Basel offers plenty for the visitor there for a day or for those looking to move there permanently – from its many art galleries including ArtBasel and DesignMiami to its active economy and employment opportunities in one of Switzerland’s biggest cities. And it’s not just aesthetically beautiful either – sure, its grand cathedrals and bridges make a striking impression but returning visitors will tell tales of Fasnacht or Vögeligärtchen or tales of days spent at the Rhine’s banks taking in its sceneries or touching on Basels history in one of its many museums or galleries. Basel is truly an awe-inspiring destination that offers plenty throughout the year regardless of age or hobbies; it’s considered by many that living or even just visiting the city is an unforgettable experience!