Grossmünster

Here you are, standing before the star of this tour—Zurich’s famous Grossmünster, which means “Great Minster”. Among the most important religious landmarks in Zurich it’s an absolute must-see during your visit. The origins of its construction comes with a legend. It is said that Felix and Regula, the city’s patron saints, were martyred by the Romans in the 3rd century and buried right at this spot. Five hundred years later, Emperor Charlemagne supposedly found their graves and decided to build a holy site in their honour. Some say it was actually his horse that suddenly stopped and bowed at the burial site. At the time, Switzerland wasn’t neutral—it was part of the Carolingian Empire, ruled by Charlemagne himself. He founded a monastery here, which was then under the authority of the bishopric of Constance, now in Germany. The present cathedral was built from the year 1100 to 1220 in a German Romanesque style. Interestingly, there’s no door on the west side. That’s because the main entrance is on the north side, as it was the starting point of the city’s ancient pilgrimage route that hounoured the martyrs. Pilgrims would begin here, at their burial place, then move towards the Wasserkirche, where they were executed, and finish at the Fraumünster, where their relics were kept. The Grossmünster is easy to spot thanks to its two tall towers built in the 15th century, which may remind you of the Notre-Dame in Paris. It’s also famous for its central role in the Protestant Reformation. It was here that the Swiss church officially split from the Pope—a dramatic and historic event that changed everything. If you step inside, you’ll notice that the cathedral has maintained its austere appearance that’s so typical of Protestant spaces. Don’t miss the beautiful choir windows made by master artist Augusto Giacometti, and the bronze doors created by Swiss sculptor Otto Münch. If you’re curious to learn more about the Reformation in Switzerland, visit the Reformation Museum located in the cloister. For a breathtaking panoramic view of Zurich’s Old Town, climb up the Charlemagne Tower—one of the cathedral’s iconic twin spires. After paying an entry fee and climbing up 200 steps, you’ll find yourself in front of a view more than worth the effort.