Biel (French Bienne), city, northwestern Switzerland, in Bern Canton, near Biel Lake, at the foot of the Jura Mountains. An important watchmaking center, Biel also has plants engaged in the manufacture of motor vehicles, machinery, and pianos. Places of interest in the city include the Gothic town hall, a late Gothic church, and the Schwab Museum, which houses a collection of relics from prehistoric settlements along the lake. The city was founded by the early 13th century. Population (1998) 49,027.
