Cabaret Voltaire

Overview

Cabaret Voltaire is the birthplace of Dada—the avant-garde art movement founded here on 5 February 1916 by Hugo Ball, Tristan Tzara, and others. Now a bar, gallery, and cultural venue, it remains dedicated to artistic provocation.

Highlights

• Dada birthplace: The actual space where the movement was founded.
• Exhibitions: Rotating shows of contemporary art with Dadaist spirit.
• Bar: Drinks in a historically charged atmosphere.

History

Hugo Ball opened the nightclub on 5 February 1916 as a space for artistic experimentation during WWI. The performances that followed launched one of the 20th century's most influential art movements.

Visitor Tips

• Free to enter: The ground-floor bar and exhibition space are open.
• Niederdorf location: On Spiegelgasse, in the Old Town.
• Duration: 20–30 minutes.