Fraumünster

Overview

Fraumünster is famous for Marc Chagall's five stained-glass windows (1970), which flood the chancel with jewel-toned biblical scenes. The Gothic church stands on the west bank of the Limmat opposite Grossmünster.

Highlights

• Chagall windows: Five luminous windows (1970) depicting biblical scenes in Chagall's signature colours.
• Giacometti window: A northern transept window by Alberto Giacometti.
• Cloister: Romanesque cloister with Paul Bodmer frescoes.

History

Founded in 853 as an abbey for aristocratic women by King Ludwig the German. The Chagall windows were commissioned in 1967 and installed in 1970.

Visitor Tips

• Entry fee: CHF 5 to see the Chagall windows.
• Morning light: The east-facing windows are best in morning sunshine.
• Duration: 15–20 minutes.