Drinking a cup of coffee in a leisurely fashion, admiring the old facades and beautiful fountains, listening to two local languages or gazing from the 74-meter spire of the Cathedral far into the countryside - this is an experience enjoyed in Fribourg (Freiburg).

Freiburg, nestled on a rock promontory, is surrounded on three sides by the Saane River. It is one of the largest medieval towns in Üechtland. Over 200 unique Gothic facades from the 15th century impart incomparable medieval charm to the Old Town.  
  
Ramparts that are over two kilometers long used to protect the city in the past. Remnants of the walls, turrets and bastions are still preserved. Most impressive, however, is the Cathedral of Freiburg with its extraordinarily beautiful stained-glass windows. Construction started in 1283 and continued in several stages. Dedicated to St. Nicholas, it boasts a 74-meter-high tower that offers a fantastic panoramic view.  
  
Another good viewpoint is the Italian-style early Baroque Loreto Chapel. From the Neuveville district (in the Lower Town), a funicular railway takes you up to the pedestrianised area of the Upper Town. Fribourg is a lively university town, with many students from all over the world, making this a cosmopolitan, multi-faceted mini-metropolis. In the narrow alleyways are tightly packed rows of little boutiques, antique shops, student cafés and restaurants, offering local and foreign specialities.  
  
One of the favourite destinations for art-lovers is the "Espace Jean Tinguely et Niki de Saint Phalle", housed in a former tram depot. More works by the two artists can be found on the Sculpture Trail through the town centre. Modern art is on display in the Fri-Art Gallery. Children will love the Puppet Museum or the highly educational Natural History Museum.  
  
It is worth making an excursion to Hauterive Abbey, a Cistercian abbey founded in 1137, and once a stopping place on the pilgrims' route to Santiago de Compostela.

**Mediaeval fountains**

Discover some of the 11 historic fountains with their beautiful columns either alone or learn all of their secrets with one of our city guides. Fribourg’s fountains have great names like Fidelity, Strength and Courage. 11 historical fountains from different centuries can be found dotted around the city. Did you know that the city of Fribourg built its most beautiful fountains in the 16th century to compete with the rival city of Bern? Several were built during this period by Hans Gieng and Hans Geiler, who were responsible for creating the most beautiful fountains in Switzerland. Embark on a journey of discovery in the company of an expert guide who will reveal the secret stories behind the fountains.

myswitzerland.com

Fribourg / Freiburg

A magnificent Cistercian abbey 20 minutes away from Fribourg, founded in 1137 by Guillaume de Glâne, leader of the Ecuvillens.

In fact, it takes its name (alta riva, in Latin, "high bank") from the presence of an imposing cliff sculpted by the waters that shuts the site, like a insurmountable barrier, the site from the south. The abbey is near the Saint Jacques de Compostelle path. About 20 monks lead a simple, contemplative life here, close to nature. The attractive abbey shop welcomes visitors; there are also guided tours.

Abbaye d'Hauterive - Fribourg / Freiburg