Here is a view looking into Basel old town. The house is number 49 Spalenberg. At street level is a goldsmith: Goldschmiede Spalenberg (https://goldschmiede-basel.ch).
Spalenberg slopes downhill to the left, towards Marktplatz and the river Rhine. Here’s a map:
This was a quick sketch on location, pen and ink, finished later in my hotel room.
Basel is a historic town. The old town retains its medieval street pattern. As well as the ancient streets, there is much to admire elsewhere.
There is a huge underground bicycle car park next to the main railway station. beautifully clean, dust free and quiet.
The glorious kinetic fountains next to the Theatre are still working. This chap has been scooping water for fifty years.
All of Tinguely’s kinetic works of art require ongoing care and maintenance.
www.basel.com
«All that is fixed decays – all that is movement endures.»
Jean Tinguely
And, amazingly, swimming is not only allowed in the Rhine, it is actively encouraged! Here is the sign outside the Tourist Office. Barfüsserplatz and the Old Town are in the background.
The tourist shop also sells waterproof bags to put your clothes in.
And, still, the old city retains its calmness.
“In Basel, you can hear your footsteps”
Someone said this to me over twenty years ago, and it is my abiding memory of Basel. Metaphorically, and in reality, I can hear my footsteps in Basel.
