European Stars and Stripes (Newspaper) - February 04, 1993, Darmstadt, Hesse                                Penguins at the Basel zoo Check out the visitors. Rhine River Switzerland Sas the courtyard of the Basel Rathaus As viewed from the second floor. Paintings by Hans Bock and a statue of Basel s founder Muna Tius Plantus set the tone. Continued from Page 3 provide a delightful palette to the Eye. Southeast of the Market Square and within walking distance along ancient Cobblestone pathways is the. Minster or Cathedral. The Cathedral commands the highest Point on Minster Hill. The Sandstone Structure sporting slender twin Spires which Rise More than 200 feet make it visible Down and across the re Ines of quite a distance. The Cathedral has been rebuilt Over the years and features the famous St. Callus doorway in the North transept. The doorway features figures of Matthew Mark Luke and John which Are represented by the symbols of the of lion Eagle and the Angel. On both sides of the figures Are representations of the six works of mercy. Depicted above the doorway Are the Wise and foolish virgins with Christ above them As the ruler of the world. The Cathedral is 213 feet Long and features Interior tombs and crypts which contain the remains of Bishops of the 10th through the 13th centuries. Enter the Cathedral through the Minste Platz an enchanting Square that retains its 18th-Century features. A leisurely Pace will allow a visitor to see the Cathedral which opens at 11 . Monday through saturday in about an hour. If you enjoy visiting museums and galleries bring plenty of shoe leather. They Are abundant. Arguably the Foremost museum in Jasel is the museum of Art. The old masters Are Well represented Here. One encounters paintings by Rembrandt Witz and Holbein through the museum s elegant Halls. For those whose tastes run to impressionist and modern Art head upstairs and see works by Gauguin Var Vogh Cezanne and Picasso. Other museums Worth visiting Are the Kirsch Garte museum with its outstanding collection of China and 18th and 19th-Century furniture the antiquarian museum with its roman sculptures and the sports museum with various and unusual sporting equipment. A Short distance from the museum of Art is the spa Lentor. At one time the old town of Basel was surrounded by fortified Walls. All that remains of those ancient Walls which were destroyed in the 19th Century is the spa Lentor a Gate which Marks the end of the old town. The imposing 14th-Century Gate which is marked by twin turrets and a peaked roof now stands alone like a Beacon in the night. No trip to Basel would be Complete without a visit to the City s world renowned zoo. Built in 1874 to quench the Swiss thirst to learn More Abbt the country s native animals the zoo Long ago expanded to include exotic animals from around the world. Rhinos hippos reptiles fish and a Large display of vocal monkeys Are just a few of the animals to be seen. It s sure to be a hit with the kids and adults too. The possibilities of things to see and do in Basel Are endless. Whether for a weekend or a Long saturday Basel should be on your list of must places to see while in Europe travellers tips getting there coming from the North take autobahn 5 directly into Basel. Esso stations on the autobahn accept gasoline coupons so filling your car should not pose a problem. Jiose arriving on autobahn 5 should be prepared to pay a Swiss Highway tax of 30 Swiss francs approximately $22. The sticker is Good for a year. Bring your passport. Swiss francs can be bought at the Border. Tourist information the tourist Board is very helpful. The staff Speaks English and it has Many brochures about the City available in English. It is at Blumen rain 2, 4001 Basel or Call 0.041 -61 -261 -5050. Stripes Magazine february 4, 1993