Bern residents discovered a large, glowing orange sphere suspended beneath the Kirchenfeld Bridge on Sunday afternoon. The unusual installation sparked widespread curiosity and speculation among passersby, with many wondering about its purpose and origin.
Key Takeaways
- A large, orange, illuminated sphere appeared under Bern's Kirchenfeld Bridge.
- The installation is called "Venus" and is a public art project.
- It is a collaboration between Remimag Gastronomie AG and Lichtfestival Luzern GmbH.
- The city of Bern approved the installation from November 7, 2025, to January 10, 2026.
- The sphere will be lit daily from 5 PM to 11 PM during its display period.
Unusual Sight Under Kirchenfeld Bridge
The prominent orange-red sphere, held by several ropes, hung directly under the historic Kirchenfeld Bridge. Its size and vibrant color made it impossible to miss. Many people stopped to observe the object, discussing what it might be.
Eyewitnesses reported feeling a distinct breeze and hearing a faint hum when standing directly beneath the sphere. This suggested an internal mechanism, adding to the mystery surrounding the installation.
Interesting Fact
The Kirchenfeld Bridge, a significant landmark in Bern, was completed in 1883 and spans the Aare River, connecting the Kirchenfeld district with the city center.
Public Speculation and Social Media Buzz
Photos of the glowing sphere quickly circulated on local social media platforms. Theories ranged from a new artistic endeavor to an elaborate marketing stunt. Some even joked about alien visitations, given the sphere's planet-like appearance.
Residents expressed a mix of confusion and excitement. The unexpected sight provided a unique talking point for Sunday afternoon strollers in the Swiss capital.
"I suddenly saw an unknown, large sphere," one Bern resident shared. "I don't know what is behind it. Maybe it is an art action." The resident also noted, "You can hear a fan if you stand underneath it. Many people are wondering what it could be."
The Mystery Unveiled: It's 'Venus'
Bern News Today sought answers from the city's information service. The city confirmed that the installation is indeed an art project. It is officially named "Venus" and is part of a larger initiative.
The project is a collaboration between Remimag Gastronomie AG and Lichtfestival Luzern GmbH. Remimag Gastronomie AG is a family-owned company known for developing restaurant concepts. Lichtfestival Luzern GmbH organizes the annual Light Festival in Lucerne.
Background on the Collaborators
Remimag Gastronomie AG focuses on creating diverse and innovative restaurant experiences. Lichtfestival Luzern is an international event showcasing light art from artists worldwide, held annually in Lucerne.
Future Display Dates and Illumination Schedule
The city of Bern has officially approved the "Venus" installation for a specific period. It will be on display from November 7, 2025, to January 10, 2026. This extended display period suggests it will become a prominent feature during the late autumn and winter months.
During its operation, the sphere will be illuminated nightly. The approved lighting schedule is from 5 PM to 11 PM. This will allow residents and visitors to experience the glowing "Venus" against the backdrop of the evening sky.
- Installation Name: Venus
- Collaborators: Remimag Gastronomie AG and Lichtfestival Luzern GmbH
- Approved Display Period: November 7, 2025 – January 10, 2026
- Daily Illumination Hours: 5 PM to 11 PM
- Location: Under Kirchenfeld Bridge, Bern
Connecting Bern and Lucerne Through Art
The presence of "Venus" in Bern serves as a precursor to the Lichtfestival Luzern, which typically takes place in January. The festival in Lucerne showcases various facets of light art created by artists from around the world.
This installation effectively extends the reach of the festival, bringing a piece of its artistic vision to the capital city. It highlights a growing trend of public art initiatives designed to engage communities and promote cultural events.
The collaboration between a gastronomy company and a light festival organizer demonstrates an innovative approach to public engagement. It merges culinary and artistic elements, creating a unique experience for the public.
The "Venus" sphere under the Kirchenfeld Bridge is more than just a temporary spectacle. It represents a creative partnership aimed at enriching the urban landscape and fostering appreciation for light art.