Posted by The Zytglogge (“Time Bell”) clock tower is one of the most famous landmarks in the historic old town of Bern. Located directly on the main sightseeing route through the city, it is an essential stop on any trip to Bern. The medieval tower combines architecture, history and mechanical engineering and attracts visitors from all over the world.
Often referred to simply as Zytglogge, the tower has shaped daily life in Bern for centuries. Long before wristwatches and smartphones, it regulated time for merchants, travelers and residents of the city. >>> Great guided tours of the Zytglogge Clock Tower
Guided tours – booking online is recommended:
Visitors who want to see the interior of the Zytglogge can join guided tours. Experienced guides explain the long history of the tower, the function of the astronomical clock and the meaning of the animated figures that appear every hour. Available tour dates can be found on this website.
History:
The history of the Zytglogge dates back to the early 13th century. It was originally built as a city gate and defensive tower on the western edge of medieval Bern. As the city expanded, the tower became part of the main street and gradually lost its defensive role.
Over the centuries, the Zytglogge was rebuilt and redesigned several times. Its current appearance reflects late medieval craftsmanship and the growing importance of timekeeping in urban life.
Astronomical clock:
One of the most remarkable features of the Zytglogge is its astronomical clock, added in the 15th century. In addition to telling the time, it shows the phases of the moon, the position of the sun and elements of the zodiac. At the time of its construction, this clock represented advanced astronomical knowledge.
Hourly spectacle:
A highlight for visitors is the short mechanical show that takes place every hour. A rooster crows, a jester turns, bears parade past and Chronos strikes the hour. This brief performance attracts many spectators, especially during the summer months.
UNESCO World Heritage:
Together with Bern’s old town, the Zytglogge was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983. The tower is therefore not only a technical curiosity but also an important cultural monument within Switzerland.
Location and accessibility:
The Zytglogge Clock Tower is located in the heart of Bern’s old town and is easily accessible on foot. It lies close to many other important sights in Bern and can be conveniently combined with a walk through the historic arcades.
Opening hours:
The tower can be admired from the outside at any time. Visits to the interior are only possible as part of a guided tour and require a ticket. The animated figures can be seen until the late evening hours.
>>> Book a guided tour of the Bern Clock Tower
A visit to the Zytglogge Clock Tower is a journey through time that connects medieval engineering with modern tourism. Even visitors who are not especially interested in technology usually find the tower and its hourly spectacle worth seeing