The most recognisable landmark in Zürich, Grossmünster’s
elegant towers (uncharitably likened by Richard Wagner to two pepper pots)
punctuate the Altstadt’s skyline. Located on the graves of Zürich’s patron
saints, Felix and Regula, the Romanesque structure dates back to the 12^th
century, although it was previously a Charlemagne-commissioned church, making
it the most senior of Zürich’s places of worship.

In the 16^th century
Huldrych Zwingli started the Swiss German Reformation from his office here;
severing links with the papacy, his reforms saw the church stripped of its
organ and papal finery, leaving the elegant, spare interior, most recently
adorned by Sigmar Polke’s beautiful, vibrant windows fashioned from thinly
sliced agate stones. Other more additions include the choir window by Augusto
Giacometti and imposing bronze doors by Otto Münch. For panoramic city views, a
couple of francs will allow you access to the Charles Tower – if you can face
the 184 steps to the top.

Opening times:

March 15 – October
31: 
Grossmünster: 9am–6pm Mon–Sat, after church service Sun
Tower: 9.15am–5pm Mon–Sat; 12.30am–5.30pm Sun

November 1 – March 14: 

Grossmünster: 10am–5pm Mon-Sat, after church service Sun
Tower: 10am-4.30pm Mon–Sat, 12.30am–4.30pm Sun

Reformation Museum: 9am–6pm Mon–Fri