Zytglogge

Bern, Switzerland

The Zytglogge is a landmark medieval tower in Bern. Built in the early 13th century, it has served the city as guard tower, prison, clock tower, centre of urban life and civic memorial.

Despite the many redecorations and renovations it has undergone in its 800 years of existence, the Zytglogge is one of Bern's most recognisable symbols and the oldest monument of the city, and with its 15th-century astronomical clock, a major tourist attraction. It is a heritage site of national significance, and part of the Old City of Bern, a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site.

 

References:

Comments

Your name



Details

Founded: c. 1218
Category: Miscellaneous historic sites in Switzerland

More Information

www.bern.com
en.wikipedia.org

Rating

4.4/5 (based on Google user reviews)

User Reviews

Daniel Sallai (3 years ago)
Zytglogge clock is a must when you are at Bern.
Sin Fong Chan (4 years ago)
The Zytglogge Visited 18/9/2019 The Zytglogge was built in the 13th century and serves as a guard tower, prison and a clock tower. This medieval tower can be seen from the far end of the street. A clock was first installed above the gate in the early 15th century, including a simple astronomical clock and musical mechanism. Zytglogge may be translated as Time Bell in English. It is the oldest monument and has become a landmark in Bern. My friends and I arrived at about 12 noon. On the hour at twelve, a dancing jester, parading bears and a gilded figure appeared.
RAMPRASAD SRINIVASAN (5 years ago)
Awesome terrific just walked from Berne railway station Picturesque street ever seen
subodh iykkara (6 years ago)
Nice old architecture with great time for a walk. Easy access from public transport.
Powered by Google

Featured Historic Landmarks, Sites & Buildings

Historic Site of the week

Château de Foix

The Château de Foix dominates the town of Foix. An important tourist site, it is known as a centre of the Cathars. Built on an older 7th-century fortification, the castle is known from 987. In 1002, it was mentioned in the will of Roger I, Count of Carcassonne, who bequeathed the fortress to his youngest child, Bernard. In effect, the family ruling over the region were installed here which allowed them to control access to the upper Ariège valley and to keep surveillance from this strategic point over the lower land, protected behind impregnable walls.

In 1034, the castle became capital of the County of Foix and played a decisive role in medieval military history. During the two following centuries, the castle was home to Counts with shining personalities who became the soul of the Occitan resistance during the crusade against the Albigensians.