Explore the History of Bern in the Zytglogge Clock Tower in Switzerland

The Swiss capital city of Bern is home to arguably the most iconic landmark in the whole of Switzerland – the imposing medieval clock tower known as the Zytglogge. Dating back to the 13th century, this distinctive red sandstone tower looms over the town’s Old Town and dominates the city skyline. It’s a beautiful structure that has withstood the test of time and is included in the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

What is the Zytglogge?

The Zytglogge is a clock tower located in Bern, Switzerland, that dates back to the 13th century. This red sandstone tower is located in the historic area of the city and stands over 42 meters high. The clock tower is inscribed with a number of Latin inscriptions related to time, striking bells every quarter hour and an intricate and stunning carillon of mechanical figures whirling around when the clock strikes full hours.

History of the Zytglogge in Bern

The Zytglogge was first constructed in the 13th century as a defensive guardhouse and prison to protect the city walls and gates of Bern. However, it was given its iconic clock tower form in 1900 and has been the main Bern landmark ever since. During its lifetime, it has gone through various redesigns, including being rebuilt and painted several times, from its red sandstone to its current bright yellow color. A notable alteration was made during the late 19th century, when a carillon of mechanical figures replaced the original bell-ringing figures to mark the hours.

Sightseeing Tour of the Zytglogge

The Zytglogge is one of the most distinct historical landmarks in Switzerland and has earned its place on the UNESCO World Heritage Sites list. As such, it is one of the most popular tourist attractions in all of Switzerland and offers a variety of sightseeing opportunities. Visitors can take a guided tour of the tower and all its history, including ascending to its top where they can get an incredible view of the cityscape of Bern. There are also opportunities to visit the two museums situated in the clock tower, including a clock museum as well as a museum dedicated to the history of Bern.

Reservations & Tickets

This tour of the historic clock tower is incredibly popular, so it’s best to book reservations and tickets in advance to guarantee entry and availability when you arrive. Tours last approximately 45 minutes, with tickets costing 10 Swiss Francs per adult. There are also discounts for students and seniors. Reservations can be made online for both individuals as well as groups, via websites such as GetYourGuide.

Conclusion

The Zytglogge clock tower is an impressive structure that stands as an icon for Bern. With its roots dating back centuries into history, this tour offers an opportunity to explore both its cultural and architectural importance to Switzerland and its many influences through the years. It’s an unforgettable experience – so book your ticket in advance and explore the grounds today. If you’re looking for a way to book your ticket to see this beautiful monument, look no further than GetYourGuide.

An Insider’s Guide to Exploring Bern, Switzerland

Bern, the capital of Switzerland, is a beautiful city located in the heart of Europe. It is the perfect destination for tourists looking to experience historic landmarks, delicious food, cultural experiences, and the beauty of Swiss architecture. In this insider’s guide, we’ll explore some of the top attractions, the best dining spots, cultural experiences, local history, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions.

Top Attractions

The city of Bern is full of beautiful landmarks, museums, and parks that are worth exploring. Here are a few top attractions that you shouldn’t miss:

– The Zytglogge Clock Tower: This historic clock tower in the heart of Bern is truly a sight to behold. Dating back to the 13th century, it is one of the oldest clocks in Switzerland and was once used as the city’s main gate. You can take a tour of the tower and learn about its fascinating history.

– The Old Town: Bern’s Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is full of stunning Swiss architecture, cobblestone streets, and beautiful fountains. Make sure to wander around and explore the many shops, restaurants, and cafes.

– The Bear Pit: The bear is a symbol of Bern, and you can see these majestic animals up close at the Bear Pit. Located in the middle of the city, it’s a great place to relax and take in the view.

– The Paul Klee Museum: This museum is dedicated to the famous Swiss artist Paul Klee. It houses a vast collection of his artwork, and you can learn about the many influences that inspired his unique style.

Dining

Bern is known for its delicious Swiss cuisine, and there are many dining spots to choose from. Here are some of the top places to eat:

– Kornhauskeller: This restaurant is located in a historic cellar and offers a delicious menu of traditional Swiss dishes. The ambiance is cozy and intimate, making it the perfect spot for a romantic dinner.

– Restaurant Rosengarten: This restaurant is located on a hillside and offers breathtaking views of the city. The menu features locally sourced ingredients, and the restaurant is known for its excellent wine selection.

– Altes Tramdepot: This restaurant is located in a historic tram depot and is perfect for beer lovers. They brew their own beer on site and offer a menu of hearty Swiss dishes.

Cultural Experiences

Bern is a city full of cultural experiences, from theater to music to art. Here are a few suggestions:

– Konzert Theater Bern: This theater hosts a variety of performances, from classical music to opera to ballet.

– Bierhübeli: This music venue features a variety of local and international acts, from indie to rock to electronic.

– Museum of Fine Arts Bern: This museum houses an impressive collection of art, from classic to contemporary.

Local History

Bern has a rich history, and there are many ways to learn about it. Here are some of the top historical attractions:

– Bern Historical Museum: This museum is dedicated to the history of Bern and features exhibits on everything from prehistoric times to modern-day Bern.

– Einstein House: This is the famous physicist’s former home, and you can take a tour to learn about the time he spent in Bern and his groundbreaking work.

– Zentrum Paul Klee: In addition to the museum dedicated to Paul Klee’s artwork, Zentrum Paul Klee also features exhibits on the Swiss artist’s life and work.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

If you’re looking to get off the beaten path and explore some hidden gems in Bern, here are a few suggestions:

– Gurten Hill: Take a funicular to the top of this hill, where you can hike, bike, or just relax and take in the views.

– Marzili Aarebad: This swimming area on the Aare river is a popular spot for locals to cool off on hot days.

– Mühle Hunziken: This music venue is located outside of Bern, but it’s worth the trip. It features a variety of local and international acts, from jazz to blues to rock.

There you have it, an insider’s guide to exploring Bern, Switzerland. From historic landmarks to delicious food to cultural experiences, there is something for everyone in this beautiful city.