Gaskessel Bern

Gaskessel Bern is a youth and cultural centre at Sandrainstrasse 25 in Bern, Switzerland. It began in 1971, when the former gasometer domes were taken over and converted for cultural use. The Gaswerk site had supplied gas for Bern’s municipal energy system from 1867 to 1967. The venue occupies two spherical structures beside the Aare, divided into hemispheres whose layout is adapted as needs change.

Run as an association, Gaskessel involves young people in organising events and operating the venue. Its programme spans concerts, parties, theatre, exhibitions, discussions and film screenings; music styles include techno, house and urban music, alongside live acts. There are two dance floors and a d&b sound system, with capacity for 250 or 500 depending on layout. The Bürgi-Willert Foundation awarded it a social prize in 2011, and Bern’s municipal executive confirmed in 2019 that it could continue at the same site.