Kulturzentrum Reitschule

The Reitschule is a fortress of rough, spray-painted stone that dominates the corner of the Schützenmatte. Originally built in the nineteenth century as an equestrian riding hall for the Swiss cavalry, the building eventually fell into disuse. In nineteen eighty-seven, after years of legal battles over its demolition, activists occupied the space to establish an autonomous cultural center. Today, its walls display a revolving gallery of political slogans and art, marking its status as a fiercely defended hub for Bern’s alternative scene.