Grossmunster


If you want to visit the religious attractions of Switzerland , then, first of all, in Zurich is worth seeing the Grossmünster Cathedral (Grossmünster). After all, this majestic monastery has long been recognized as a visiting card of the city, and therefore is located in its very center.

Touching on the subject of history, I would like to note that the cathedral was built in the 9th century by the decree of Charlemagne. True, despite the fact that the construction began in 1090, it was completed only in the 18th century, and therefore the temple architecture was made in different styles (Romanesque, Gothic, Neo-Gothic). By the way, next to Grossmünster there was a church school, which in 1853 became the first school for girls. For today in its building the theological faculty is located.

What to see in the Grossmünster Cathedral?

First of all, be sure to visit the organ concert and admire the inner beauty of the building. By the way, the events take place on Wednesdays at 18:30, the cost of the entrance ticket is 15 francs.

What will fascinate any traveler in Zurich is a panorama that you can enjoy while climbing the tower of the cathedral. True, there is a small nuance: you have to overcome the winding tower ladder before admiring the view of the old city and the beauty of Lake Zurich . It will not be superfluous to note that, if desired, you can order a tour of the tower, which is paid separately. But the rise to it costs 4 francs (adult ticket) and 2 francs (children and students).

In the arch of the facade of Grossmünster you can see the majestic statue of Charles, a copy of the original of the 15th century, which was transferred to the crypt of the temple. And on one of the walls of the temple, the name of Henry Bullinger, the great shepherd of the church, was immortalized.

Before entering the cathedral, be sure to pay attention to the portal, at the top of which is the stained glass of Sigmar Polke and the massive bronze doors that belong to the work of Otto Munke. Also worth mentioning ornament and columns at the portal.

Going inside the temple, you stop your eyes on the stained-glass windows created by the famous German artist Biennale Sigmar Polka. All five glass works of the eastern part of the building depict paintings from the Old Testament. And the seven Western stained glass windows consist of pieces of agate.

How to get there?

To get to the cathedral, take the tram number 3, 4, 6, 11 or 15 and get off at the stop "Zürich" or "Helmhaus". By the way, on the opposite bank of the Limmat river is another famous temple of Zurich - Fraumunster .