The Taubenloch Gorge, Petinesca, the Prince-Bishopric of Basel and Bern

12 April 2026

The history of the Taubenloch Gorge (Taubenlochschlucht) as a north-south link and gateway to the Jura dates back to Roman times. The main route from Marseille via Lake Geneva to the Rhine formed one way, whilst a second ran from Bern (Engehalbinsel) deep into the Jura.

The Roman Era

The two routes crossed at the settlement of Petinesca, near Studen. The Roman temple complex near Studen bears witness to its relevance.

Petinesca, the location of the Roman temple complex near Studen

The Jura route ran over the Bözingenberg, high above the Taubenloch Gorge. A Roman watchtower on the Geissrücken above Frinvillier highlights the route’s strategic importance. It followed the Schüss river to Sonceboz, before crossing the Pierre Pertuis – the rock pierced by the Romans (piedra pertusa) – to reach the valley of the young Birs.

The present-day situation

Until the early 19th century, this road link to the Erguel and the bishopric of Basel could cope with the volume of traffic. With the separation of the bishopric and its integration into the Canton of Bern in 1815, the traffic situation became more intense.

At the beginning of the Taubenlochschlucht

The new road from Biel to Sonceboz, featuring the arched bridge over the Schüss, was completed in 1859. The Jura Railway was built in 1874. However, it also marked the end of stagecoach services.

The footpath through the gorge, initiated by the Swiss Alpine Club (SAC), has existed since 1889. The Taubenloch Society was founded to maintain and look after it. Construction of Taubenloch Road began in 1969.

Blastings, bridges, viaducts, piers and many other engineering structures had to be anchored within the Taubenloch Gorge itself.

(Source and further information: Verein Taubenlochschlucht)