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The Zytglogge is one of the most iconic landmarks in Bern, Switzerland. This medieval clock tower is not just a symbol of Bern but also a significant piece of Swiss history and engineering. Located in the heart of Bern’s Old Town, the Zytglogge has stood for centuries as a sentinel over time, blending function, beauty, and tradition. Originally built in the early 13th century, the tower has served many purposes – from being a guard tower to a prison, and now a world-renowned clock tower and astronomical marvel.
Reaching the Zytglogge is easy as it is centrally located in the Old Town of Bern, a UNESCO World Heritage site. If you're arriving by train, take a train to Bern's main railway station (Bahnhof Bern). From there, it is a short 10-minute walk through the picturesque streets of Old Town. Alternatively, you can take tram lines 6, 7, 8, or 9 and get off at the "Zytglogge" stop. The city’s efficient public transportation system makes it accessible from any part of Bern.
Bern experiences a temperate climate, making it suitable for visits throughout the year. Summers (June to August) are mild with temperatures averaging between 18°C to 28°C (64°F to 82°F), perfect for walking tours. Winters (December to February) can be cold, with temperatures sometimes dropping below freezing. Snowfall adds a magical touch to the Old Town and Zytglogge. Spring and autumn offer pleasant weather and fewer tourists, making it an ideal time to explore the landmark.
The clock tower can be admired from the outside at any time. However, guided tours inside the Zytglogge are generally available Monday through Saturday. Most tours run between 10:00 AM and 3:00 PM, but times may vary depending on the season and language preference. It is advisable to book in advance through the Bern Tourism website or at the local tourist office near the railway station.
The Zytglogge is famous for its astronomical clock, which features an intricate display of moving figures that come to life every hour. This includes a dancing jester, bears, a rooster, and Chronos, the god of time. Built in 1530, the clock mechanism is an exceptional piece of medieval engineering that still functions today. It is also a symbol of Swiss precision, and visitors flock to see the mechanical procession before the hour strikes.
To visit the interior of the Zytglogge, including its clock mechanism, you must join a guided tour. Tickets are generally available at the Bern Tourism office or online. The cost of a guided tour ranges from CHF 20 to CHF 25 per person. Children under 6 often enter for free. The tour includes climbing the historic spiral staircase and viewing the inner workings of the clock, as well as a panoramic view of Bern from the top of the tower.
The Zytglogge was originally constructed around 1218-1220 as a western gate tower in Bern's city wall. After a fire in 1405, the tower was rebuilt and later remodeled into the clock tower we see today. The astronomical clock was added in 1530 by Caspar Brunner. The tower’s architecture features a combination of medieval and baroque styles, with thick sandstone walls, a copper-topped dome, and richly decorated clock faces. Inside, the original 16th-century gearworks are still in operation, a testament to Swiss craftsmanship and preservation.
Visiting Zytglogge is a highlight of any Bern trip. Begin by watching the hourly show of the clock figures. Join a guided tour to climb the tower and view the mechanism in action. From the top, enjoy panoramic views of the red-roofed Old Town and the Bernese Alps in the distance. Around the Zytglogge, you can explore the Kramgasse street lined with charming shops, cafes, and historic buildings. Don’t miss nearby attractions such as the Einstein House and Bern Cathedral.
