Ostermundigen

Ostermundigen
Name	Ostermundigen
Municipality code	0353
Canton	Bern
District	Bern-Mittelland
Languages	German
Postal code	3072
Elevation m	565
Area km2	5.96
Population	17,758
Population date	2021
Website	www.ostermundigen.ch

Ostermundigen is a municipality in the Bern-Mittelland administrative district of the Canton of Bern in Switzerland. Located directly east of the federal city of Bern, it is a key part of the Bern agglomeration and has evolved from a farming village into a densely populated suburban community. The municipality is situated on the northern slopes of the Ostermundigenberg, a foothill of the Berner Hausberge, offering distinctive views over the Swiss Plateau and the Alps.

Geography

Ostermundigen covers an area of 5.96 square kilometers, with its terrain characterized by the prominent rise of the Ostermundigenberg and the adjacent Bantiger mountain. The historical village core lies at the foot of this hill, while modern residential and commercial zones have expanded towards the plains bordering Bern. The municipality is traversed by the Südbahn railway line and several major roads, including the A6 motorway, connecting it to the wider Mittelland region. Notable natural features include the Könizbergwald forest area and the former quarries on the Ostermundigenberg, which historically supplied Bernese sandstone for buildings like the Bundeshaus and the Zytglogge.

History

The area shows signs of early settlement, with La Tène era graves discovered near the Bremgartenwald. Ostermundigen was first mentioned in 1239 as "Osturmundingun" in a document from the Interlaken Monastery. Throughout the Middle Ages, it was under the jurisdiction of the Kyburg family and later the City of Bern, administered from the Äussere Stand of the Bernese sovereignty. The local economy was long dominated by agriculture, viticulture, and sandstone quarrying, with the stone used in major constructions across Bern. The 19th century brought significant change with the arrival of the Swiss Central Railway in 1858 and the establishment of industries like the watchmaking factory of Girard-Perregaux, transforming it into a workers' community.

Demographics

As of 2021, Ostermundigen has a population of approximately 17,758, making it one of the larger municipalities in the canton. The population density is high, reflecting its suburban character within the Metropolitan region of Bern. A large majority of residents speak German, with significant communities speaking Italian, Serbo-Croatian, and Albanian. Religious affiliation has shifted markedly; while historically dominated by the Swiss Reformed Church, a growing percentage of the population is now religiously unaffiliated or adheres to Islam and Roman Catholicism.

Economy

Ostermundigen's economy is primarily service-oriented, with many residents commuting to work in Bern. The municipality hosts several industrial and commercial zones, including businesses in the logistics, retail, and IT sectors. Historically important industries like sandstone quarrying and watchmaking have largely disappeared, though the legacy of the Girard-Perregaux factory remains part of local heritage. The presence of the SBB maintenance workshops and proximity to the Bern Airport in Belp also contribute to the economic landscape.

Culture and sights

The most prominent landmark is the Reformed Church of Ostermundigen, a Late Gothic building with a tower from 1494. The old village center, with its characteristic Bernese farmhouses and the historic Oberhofen estate, is listed as a heritage site of national significance. Cultural life includes the local "Chästeilet" festival and activities organized by numerous clubs and associations. The Ostermundigenberg offers popular recreational trails and vantage points, while the former quarry sites are now protected natural areas.

Notable people

* Albrecht von Haller (1708–1777), the renowned Swiss naturalist and poet, owned the Oberhofen estate in Ostermundigen. * Eduard von Steiger (1881–1962), member of the Swiss Federal Council and former Federal Councillor, was born and spent his early years here. * Fritz Bühler (1909–1963), a influential graphic designer and poster artist known for his work for the Swiss National Bank, was a native of the municipality. * René Schwertz (born 1991), a professional cyclist who has ridden for teams like Bora–Hansgrohe, was born in Ostermundigen.

Category:Municipalities of the canton of Bern Category:Cultural property of national significance in the canton of Bern