Der letzte Coiffeur vor der Wettsteinbrücke

At the age of 81, Charly Hottiger – known in Basel as the «Kischtli barber» – is one of the oldest barbers still working in Switzerland. In the 50s and 60s orphans were sent to him to have their hair cut because his shop is located in the near vicinity of the public orphanage, which is called «Kischtli». Today, many of the «former residents» still pay him a visit, as do sports colleagues, neighbours and friends. Despite his age, Charly still works from Wednesdays to Saturdays and, often without a lunch break, from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. to compensate his meagre pension. His shop in Kleinbasel is host to many eventful visits. Charly's barbershop is a meeting place.