Bienne and the Rösti Barrier

Description

Bienne proudly bears the banner of the only city in Switzerland that is rigorously bilingual. Its location on the language border, at the center of the "Röstigraben," is a commitment: French-speaking and German-speaking cultures merge here. This must contribute to the particular charm of an open and lively city. The road to bilingualism was long: from the Romanization of a region that spoke Celtic to the alternating dominance of one language then another, leading to the "Bienne dialect." The official recognition of bilingualism in Bienne only occurred in 1950. Since then, society has strived to overcome potential differences. Culture, sports, associations, and bilingual schools help develop common reference points. However, Bienne is not only French and German-speaking: the living space that hosts over 120 other languages is also a source of identity. Buildings, parks, squares, and meeting places provide the local population with a familiar setting where one feels at home. The thematic island "Bienne and the Rösti Barrier" questions how different cultures live together in the city, how they communicate with each other, and where they meet. It also shows that multilingualism experienced over the centuries has always required a certain commitment to achieve mutual understanding.

Highlights

• Exhibition on bilingualism in Bienne
• Exploration of French-speaking and German-speaking cultures
• Theme of multilingualism and cultural coexistence

General Information

The "Bienne and the Rösti Barrier" exhibition is held at the NMB Nouveau Musée de Bienne. It examines how different cultures coexist and communicate in this unique city, while highlighting the importance of multilingualism in daily life.

Location

Faubourg du Lac 52, 2502 Biel / Bienne, Switzerland

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