Bern's Renaissance-style Bundeshaus (Parliament building) stands on the edge of the high ground above the Aare River.
The domed central block contains the two chambers of the Swiss Parliament, the meeting places of the National Council, and the Council of States; in the east wing and west wings are various federal agencies and the federal library. The entire place is open to visitors.
Access is slightly restricted when Parliament is in session. From the Bundesterrasse, which rests on massive retaining walls, there are awesome views of the river Aare below and the Alps beyond.
