Zurich is a land of beauty, history and charm nestled between Lake Zurich and the River Limmat, framed by the breathtaking Alps. Imagine yourself strolling down the quays of the River Limmat or Lake Zurich—the very places that Ulrich Zwingli tread when he pastored the Grossmunster (or the Great Church) beginning in 1519. Spend an afternoon exploring Old Town with its quaint 19th century setting or enjoying the rich Reformation sites of the city…it’s all at your fingertips in beautiful Zurich, Switzerland.

Zurich dates its origins from 15BC; by the tenth century, the town had acquired the status of a city. It was at the center of the Swiss Reformation in the 16th century, under the leadership of Ulrich Zwingli. His motto ‘pray and work’ was to have a profound effect on this diligent city, which, by the 19th century, had grown into the commercial and financial center of Switzerland.

Grossmunster The twin towers face the River Limmat and have become the most recognizable symbols in Zurich. Originally endowed by Charlemagne, parts of this church date back to the 11th and 13th centuries. Although cleansed of much ornamentation during its break from Papal tyranny, there are still remains of a Romanesque cloister, 12th-century statuary and more recently added stained glass in the choir by Augusto Giacometti (Alberto’s cousin). Most importantly to us, Zwingli began his great Reformation teaching here in 1518. Probably one of the most-recognized sites in Zurich, the twin towers of the Great Church, Grossmunster, as it known, is the site of Zwingli’s assignment in Zurich in 1518. He used this platform to begin teaching his reform theologies that led the way to Zurich’s eventual freedom from Rome’s control. His little study (the "Zwingli-Stübli"), in the official dwelling of the deacon of the Great Minster, is carefully preserved in its original condition. Back to top

Fraumünster. This beautiful church dates from the ninth century (when it was a Benedictine Abbey) and is a well-known landmark especially noted for its elegant spire dating from 1732. The church is predominantly Gothic, although the choir is Romanesque. The site was originally endowed by Charlemagne’s grandson, the German king Ludwig, in 853 and later became the church of the Zurich noblewomen’s convent. This church also draws many tourists who wish to view its 20th century stained glass choir windows by Marc Chagall (1970). These glass works of art are best seen in the morning light. Back to top

Schweizerisches Landesmuseum (Swiss National Museum) This beautiful castle-like museum sits in the midst of a meticulously landscaped triangle and houses the most important museum collection in Zurich. It includes works of religious art (frescoes, altarpieces etc.), Roman clothing, medieval silverware, furniture, costumes, dollhouses of various periods and Swiss clocks. On display are Zwingli's helmut and sword used at the Battle of Kappel and his Chalice (according to tradition).Back to top

Uetliberg. Uetliberg is located just a quick 20 minute train ride from Zurich. The king of picnic spots, it is well-known as the “top of Zurich.” Whether you would like to hike the trails, picnic with the locals, dine at one of the restaurants, explore the museum or take one of many walks offered in the area, the panoramic views of Zurich will take your breath away. Back to top

St. Peterskirche. St. Peter’s Church dates from the early part of the 13th century and boasts the largest clock face in Europe. The property has housed a church since the 9th century and has seen much rebuilding and expansion since the current building’s beginnings. In 1534, the tower was extended to accommodate the enormous clock and the nave was rebuilt in 1705. Inexpensive and even free classical concerts are often held here and open to the public.Back to top