Münsingen is a municipality of about 12,000 people that is nestled along the Aare River as it leaves Thun and heads northward towards the capital of Switzerland – Bern.
The city developed from a Celtic village that had its origins around 400 BC. Yeah … that’s pretty long ago! Think about it … 400 BC!
As I looked at the cities along the Aare – you see so much information about the Romans and also the Celts. But, given that Switzerland is bordered on the south by Italy I guess it only makes sense.
The powerful Roman armies and the fact that their civilization conquered so much of the known world in the early ages. Well, naturally their history is 
intertwined with the country of Switzerland.
Münsingen is also the location of USM … the international company that produces office furniture.
After passing through Münsingen the Aare pushes into the city of Bern.
Now, Bern is the capital of Switzerland. Obviously, many people think that the larger cities of Zurich or Geneva might head the Swiss government … but this distinction falls to Bern.
With a population of 400,000 (660,000 in metropolitan area) this vibrant city is really well worth a visit anytime. It is really a beautiful place that was built around a bend in the Aare River.
When you visit, you can see how the Aare literally snakes about the city and is a major attraction. In fact, people will float the river from place to place (some people literally will pack their clothes in a plastic bag and float to work!)
I am told it is a great way to bar hop during the summer months. Now, if that’s the case I need to find out how this works.
Many people know I am a very seasoned veteran of river floats. My summer days in Arizona were literally spent on weekly tubes down the Great Salt River. I am one of the few to navigate this river at night … even saw a rattlesnake on that trip!
When you wander the streets of Bern you can quickly find yourself in the famous Old City. As you enter you will see the world renown clock tower or “Zytglogge.” The tower rings every quarter hour with the main bell being struck on the hour by the giant brass figure with a hammer. (This is Chronos – the Greek symbol for time.)
Trust me, you won’t miss it. It always attracts a crowd as the top of the hour approaches.
There is some beautiful scenery there. You can stroll down the “Promenade” with its great shopping and the famous fountains set in the middle of the boulevard.
Don’t miss the Cathedral (Bern Münster) as you walk down towards the river. Well, actually it would be hard to miss as it towers above the storefronts along 
the “Promenade.” As you check out the Church you can look down into the old city and the blue-green of the Aare. Quite a view.
As you continue down towards the bridge over the Aare you can see the famed bear pits on the opposite side. I’ve been to Bern and the Altstadt (Old City) many times 
over the years. But, rarely have I seen the bears wandering around their huge confines.
However, the last time I was in Bern, the bears were out and swimming in their rock pool. Pretty cool stuff.
Bern has a lot to offer with its architecture, stores and restaurants. A great place to spend a day.