St Jakob Park (capacity 42,500) - the stadium
capacity is being increased for the tournament from its present
level of just over 33,000. Home ground of FC Basel.
Right in the heart of Europe, situated on the border triangle
of Germany, France and Switzerland, the Basle region is an attractive
and innovative economic, research and cultural location.
Neighbours co-operate
Close co-operation with neighbours is the order of the day in this region
where the River Rhine turns north – one example being the common
use of the tri-national EuroAirport. Thanks to a well-balanced and effective
business development policy, international financial, insurance and logistics
services have settled in the region, together with the most significant
pharmaceutical, life sciences and biotechnology enterprises. The latter
are helping Basle develop into a leading worldwide research region. Narrowly
linked to this are the educational institutes, above all Basle University,
in existence since 1460 and is consequently the oldest such establishment
north of the Alps. Through its co-operation with private industry, the
university is contributing constantly to high-quality and innovative results.
Fairs and congresses
Furthermore, the city of Basle has held trade fairs since 1471, and has
developed into Switzerland's most important fair and congress city. Each
year, Basle hosts the Baselworld world watches and jewellery fair, as
well as 'Art Basel', the most important art fair of the 20th and 21st
centuries.
Leisure possibilities
The two half-cantons Basle city and Basle county, neighbouring Alsace
in France and the German Black Forest all form together into a region
which offers massive cultural and leisure possibilities.
Open to the world
The city of Basle is also notable for world-famous museums, one of the
best German-language theatres and musical events for all tastes. The city
is remarkable for its romantic and extremely well-tended Old City, which
contrasts with modern buildings designed by renowned architects. Unlimited
shopping possibilities, a rich culinary choice of good things to eat and
drink, a lively nightlife and any number of traditional three-, four-
and five-star hotels all contribute to the image of a cultural metropolis
that is open to the world.
Scenic contrast
Basle county provides a rural and scenic contrast to the city. Outings,
wonderful hikes, historical sites such as the Roman settlement Augusta
Raurica and other exciting activities can be enjoyed in a huge local recreation
area. The Basle region is one of the most scenic, cleanest and safest
regions in the world. Anyone looking for quality of life will certainly
find it here!
