Swiss Parliament

Architect Hans W. Auer

The Swiss Parliament building was erected between 1894 and 1902 to plans by architect Hans W. Auer, and was inaugurated by the Federal Councils at a solemn ceremony on 1 April 1902.

Prestigious national monument

The architect's commission left no room for ambiguity. He was to design a prestigious national monument worthy of Switzerland. The Federal Palace, called Bundeshaus by the Swiss, consisting of the Parliament Building flanked by the East Wing and the West Wing, is the symbol of the Federal State of Switzerland. The Parliament building is embellished by a multitude of architectural and decorative ornaments rife with symbolism of Switzerland's history.

Swiss Constitution

The totally revised Swiss Constitution dating from 1874 came into effect in 1902. Four medallions in the dome, designed by Antonio Soldini, show the key powers of the Federal State which was still in its infancy.