Lausanne Cathedral, the largest Gothic church in Switzerland, was built in the 12th to 13th centuries and consecrated in 1275 by Pope Gregory X and Emperor Rudolf I. It is the oldest church in Switzerland. The church is famous for its 13th century stained rose windows and beautifully carved portals. The tradition of the night watchman in the bell tower has continued since 1405, chiming the hours every night and becoming a unique cultural symbol of the city. Climbing up to the bell tower offers a breathtaking view of the old town of Lausanne and Lake Geneva.