Swiss National Museum

Overview

The Swiss National Museum traces Swiss history from prehistory to the present in a fairy-tale castle next to Zürich Hauptbahnhof. Its eclectic architecture and modern extension cover Swiss culture, politics, and identity.

Highlights

• History of Switzerland: Permanent exhibition tracing the country from lake dwellers to direct democracy.
• Arms and armour: Medieval weapons and suits of armour.
• Architecture: The 1898 historicist castle plus a 2016 concrete extension by Christ & Gantenbein.

History

Designed by Gustav Gull in 1898, the museum was built to resemble a medieval Swiss castle. The 2016 extension added contemporary exhibition spaces.

Visitor Tips

• Free under 16: Children enter free.
• Central location: Adjacent to the main train station.
• Duration: 1–2 hours.