Langenthal

A small town in Upper Aargau, crossed by the river Langeten, a tributary of the Aare. Upper Aargau is the north-eastern part of the canton of Bern, bordering the cantons of Solothurn, Aargau and Lucerne.

From the 17th century onwards, Langenthal, once a simple farming village, benefited from the development of the textile industry in the Emmental and Upper Aargau.

The thread and fabrics produced throughout the region passed through its market before being exported to France, Italy, Spain and Portugal. A porcelain factory and other companies strengthened its position as an industrial and craft centre.

Today, Langenthal is a small, quiet town of 16,000 inhabitants, with a partly pedestrianised town centre that has preserved some beautiful old buildings.