Zytglogge

Overview

The Zytglogge is a medieval clock tower that has stood at the heart of Bern's Old Town since the early 13th century. Originally built as the western gate of the city, it became a prison, then the city's master clock — its astronomical dial and animated figurines have been captivating visitors since 1530.

Highlights

• Astronomical Clock: A gilded mechanism showing the hour, day, month, zodiac, and moon phase, crafted in 1530 by Caspar Brunner.
• Animated Figurines: Four minutes before each hour, a parade of bears, a jester, and Father Time perform a mechanical show.
• Interior Tour: Guided tours reveal the 500-year-old clockwork mechanism from inside the tower.

History

Built around 1218–1220 as Bern's first western city gate, the tower survived a fire in 1405 and was rebuilt in its current form. After the city expanded westward, it was repurposed as a clock tower and briefly as a women's prison. The clock mechanism installed in 1530 is one of the oldest functioning astronomical clocks in Europe.

Visitor Tips

• Tip 1: The figurine show starts at 4 minutes to the hour — arrive early for a good viewing spot on Kramgasse.
• Tip 2: Interior tours run at set times and must be booked through Bern Tourism; they sell out in summer.
• Duration: 30 minutes (exterior + show), 50 minutes with interior tour.