Don’t miss out on Basel’s wealth of attractions and adventures
BASEL TATTOO
July 16–23, 2011; July 14–21, 2012
Taking place each year on the banks of the Rhine, the Basel Tattoo is a unique experience and a true highlight for any elite traveler visiting Basel.
This military display involves a cast of over 1000 performers, with the best army, civilian and royal marching bands from around the world. These talented musicians gather at this historic base every July to deliver a truly memorable performance. The music covers a wide range of genres, from contemporary to traditional, and is supported by innovative choreography. The highlight of this spectacular is the gathering of the pipes and drums, when more than 200 performers fill the arena with their incredible sound, transporting the audience to the Scottish Highlands. Now in its sixth year the Basel Tattoo is proud to announce that Her Majesty’s Coldstream Guards from London and the Aimachi Marching Band from Japan will be featuring at this year’s event. With exceptional VIP packages on offer, this is a must-see experience for the elite traveler.
The Catathedral
The Cathedral is the city’s most recognizable landmark and a protected heritage site.
Its red sandstone architecture, colorful tiled roof and two slim towers are a much-loved landmark in this tranquil medieval town. The Cathedral sits in the Münsterplatz on Cathedral Hill, where the city was founded by the Celts in the first century BC. Originally a Catholic cathedral and today a Reformed Protestant church, The Cathedral was destroyed in the city’s 1356 earthquake. Johannes von Gmüd was commissioned to rebuild the cathedral, but it wasn’t until various extensions and re-designs that it took its current form in 1500. Today The Cathedral plays host to many of Basel’s biggest celebrations and events and is a monument to triumph over adversity.
BASEL CARNIVAL
February 27 – March 1, 2012
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Easily the largest carnival in Switzerland, Basel Carnival completely takes over the city from 4am Monday until 4am Thursday, providing a thrilling time for locals and tourists alike.
This three-day extravaganza commences with the ‘Morgenstreich’. Taking place the Monday after Ash Wednesday, this procession of 200 illuminated canvas lanterns enthrals spectators as the sun slowly rises above the picturesque city center. The following days bring more colorful and vibrant processions of masked and costumed carnival participants, floats, horse-drawn carriages and the mischievous ‘Waggis’ character who distributes oranges, yellow mimosa, throws ‘Räppli’ (confetti) and invites spectators to become part of the show. The Basel Carnival is brought to a close by a cacophony of sound, as brass band musicians fill the streets to perform the ‘Gugge’ concert. The Basel Carnival is a truly unique experience and one that every elite traveler to this wonderful city should experience.
