about Basel
Despite its proximity to both France and Germany, Basel boasts a distinct Swiss character. Designated the "European city of Culture" for 2001, Basel has long been a centre of the arts and intellect. The city boasts more than 30 prominent museums, which makes it an excellent cultural destination. Its renowned university, which has more than 500 years of history, has hosted great philosophers such as Nietzsche. Basel is also a great carnival city. Every spring tourists and locals gather in town for the famous Fasnacht. The three-day fiesta features traditional pipe music and people, dressed in costumes that walk through the town.