Bern is the Capital of Switzerland and seat of the Swiss Federal authorities. Dating back to the 12th century, it‘s still the fine old city of by-gone days. Nothing could spoil its charming appearance, those ancient fountains and towers, the sandstone steps which were worn down by past and present generations of walkers, and the famous 4 miles of the arcaded streets with their beautiful and tempting shops – a paradise for shoppers and browsers. The main sights of the city tour are the Houses of Parliament with the huge terrace, the Federal Mint, the Cathedral in baroque style, the Clock Tower, the Town Hall and last but not least, the Bear Pit – the bear is the heraldic animal of the city arms.