Swiss National Museum

Zürich, Switzerland

The Swiss National Museum is one of the most important art museums of cultural history in Europe. The museum building of 1898 in the historicist style was built by Gustav Gull in the form of the French Renaissance city chateaus. The impressive architecture with dozens of towers, courts and his astonishing park on a peninsula between the rivers Sihl and Limmat has become one of the main sights of the Old City District of Zurich.

The exhibition tour takes the visitor from prehistory through ancient times and the Middle Ages to the 20th century (classic modern art and art of the 16th, 17th and 18th century is settled mainly in the Kunsthaus Museum in a different part of the city of Zurich). There is a very rich section with gothic art, chivalry and a comprehensive collection of liturgical wooden sculptures, panel paintings and carved altars. Zunfthaus zur Meisen near Fraumünster church houses the porcelain and faience collection of the Swiss National Museum. There are also: a Collections Gallery, a place where there are Swiss furnishings being exhibited, an Armoury Tower, a diorama of the Battle of Murten, and a Coin Cabinet showing 14th, 15th, 16th century Swiss coins and even some coins from the Middle Ages.

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Details

Founded: 1898
Category: Museums in Switzerland

Rating

4.5/5 (based on Google user reviews)

User Reviews

Zoheir Touaibia (4 months ago)
The Swiss National Museum offers a solid overview of Swiss history and culture, but it feels somewhat generic. While the exhibits are well-curated, the experience lacks a unique defining feature to make it stand out. Unlike the Vienna Museum, with its extensive collections and interactive options, or the Munich Museum’s captivating scientific approach, the Swiss National Museum could benefit from a more distinctive focus or innovative presentation to elevate the visitor experience. It’s a good visit, but not particularly memorable.
G Cheema (4 months ago)
Went in December when Christmas lights were. Really beautiful lighting. It was super crowded and it was difficult to move around. I went in evening. There was no fee to enter for the lights.
Ankita Roy (4 months ago)
The Swiss National Museum is a must-visit during any trip to Zurich. It’s one of the most beautiful places, showcasing Swiss history and culture in a stunning, atmospheric setting. The exhibits are fascinating and well-curated, offering a deep dive into the country’s heritage. Visiting in late November, we were treated to a picturesque snowfall that added an extra layer of magic to our experience. The peaceful winter vibes and stunning architecture make it the perfect spot to spend a few hours. A highlight of our vacation!
incognito ali (5 months ago)
Wonderful place to spend a day particularly a rainy one when you cannot enjoy outdoors. Variety of exhibits and a load of interactive displays that kids enjoy a lot. Next to the main railway station so very easy access.
Chan Bak (5 months ago)
The entrance to this museum was free with a Swiss Travel Pass, and the museum was located right across the street from Zurich station. The museum's guided path allowed me to enjoy the collection from the older to the newer pieces, as each section was separated by their designated century. I enjoyed having a glimpse into Switzerland's past. I would recommend it to anyone who visits Zurich.
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Rosenborg Castle

Rosenborg Palace was built in the period 1606-34 as Christian IV’s summerhouse just outside the ramparts of Copenhagen. Christian IV was very fond of the palace and often stayed at the castle when he resided in Copenhagen, and it was here that he died in 1648. After his death, the palace passed to his son King Frederik III, who together with his queen, Sophie Amalie, carried out several types of modernisation.

The last king who used the place as a residence was Frederik IV, and around 1720, Rosenborg was abandoned in favor of Frederiksborg Palace.Through the 1700s, considerable art treasures were collected at Rosenborg Castle, among other things items from the estates of deceased royalty and from Christiansborg after the fire there in 1794.

Soon the idea of a museum arose, and that was realised in 1833, which is The Royal Danish Collection’s official year of establishment.