Crowning the picture-perfect Weinegg Quarter, this university garden is enlivened by a vivid tapestry of botanical wonders. It is an integral part of the Institute of Systematic Botany. Constructed across its verdant meadows are bubble-style greenhouses, bountiful harbors of plants which lovingly call to mind the clear weather and vibrant landscapes of the Mediterranean and the Tropics. Come spring, the garden comes alive with a burst of mesmerizing blooms while droves of frogs croon into its glimmering pond. From alpine roses and water plants to native European and primitive species, the garden strives to be an embodiment of both research and recreation, creating a gardenscape which is a spectacular feast for the senses.
A bevy of cultural experiences are to be found in this old villa, on top of a little hill in a park. On different floors, Rietberg Museum shows art from India, Southeast Asia, China, Tibet, Japan, Africa, Oceania, America, and Switzerland. Displays contain objects like statues of Shiva and other gods and goddesses, wooden dolls, masks and other artifacts. The admission prices for temporary exhibits differ from the normal rates. Get caught up in the world of the past and pay a visit to this magical museum.
A venerated cathedral made memorable by its imposing twin towers, Grossmünster is among the best-known landmarks in Zurich. Construction on the Romanesque-style structure began in the early 12th Century and continued for roughly 110 years. Legend reckons that the church was built as a monastery on the graves of Zurich's patron saints Felix and Regula and today proudly stands guard over the city and its spectacular landscape. Other significant architectural features apart from the towers include magnificent bronze doors, an 11th-century crypt, and grotesque-ornamented capitals that top the medieval columns of the grand south portal. Besides its architectural glory, the Grossmünster is also revered for its historical significance as the site where religious leader Huldrych Zwingli launched the Protestant Reformation in Switzerland during the 16th Century. The cathedral has since witnessed a handful of modifications, such as the stained-glass windows added in 1932 by Augusto Giacometti.
Once an all-women abbey for those of aristocratic lineage, the Fraumünster Church commands dignity and a place of pride in Zurich. Perhaps one of the most striking features of this church is the troupe of magnificent, diversely colored stained glass windows crafted by renowned artists Marc Chagall and Augusto Giacometti. Another such recognizable gem of the church is its soaring tower, which was built in 1732, standing today in stark contrast to the twin towers of the nearby Grossmünster. This Gothic-Romanesque church also features an ornate nave, a Romanesque chancel, and exquisite frescoes which are but an escape into the church's storied past. Topped by a gleaming teal cap, this church proudly graces the heart of Zurich's old town.
One of the best things about Zurich being a university town is that the university has several free museums. The Zoological Museum is the main attraction, not only because of the microscope tables, furry games and video projections, the giant giraffe and stuffed birds. No, the best attraction is getting there! A Polybahn which is accessible from the tram station Central, brings you to the terrace where many of the university buildings are found. This beautifully restored, antique mode of transport is a special treat for children of all ages.
Located in the Löwenbräu area, the Kunsthalle Zürich exhibits contemporary art works of various artistes throughout the year. Beginners as well as professionals from all parts of the world take pride in putting up their paintings, sketches and photographs on the Kunsthalle forum. International celebrities, such as Isa Genzken, Anselm Reyle and Sarah Morris have held shows at this premier venue in the past. As a rule though, this museum displays only one artist's creations at a time.
Zurich's vibrant and diverse history comes alive Augustinergasse, a historic street which winds through the charming Old Town. Touted as one of Zurich's most colorful streets, Augustinergasse is where lovingly carved, wooden windows embellish picture-perfect buildings gleaming in corals, emeralds and pastels. In the Middle Ages, it was home to a number of local artists, though the street was largely occupied by wealthy factory owners by the 17th Century. Notable landmarks along Augustinergasse include Augustinerkirche, one of the most significant churches in medieval Zurich, and Munzplatz, which served not only as a church but also as a workshop and mint coinage. Perhaps the most striking attribute of these edifices is the strategically crafted oriel windows, which go beyond just being a pretty ornamentation. Through these bay windows, residents could view forthcoming guests, hence buying themselves time to decline them with grace, if they so wished. These buildings which date to as far back as the 14th Century, are presently storefronts brimming with cultural relics, books, souvenirs, clothing and the likes.
Located close to the Limmat river, the Zivilschutz Museum is perfect for those who wish to know more about the local history. Housed in a 1941 bunker, that was designed to protect civilians from the worst of World War II attacks that included air raids and bombs, the museum showcases to visitors, the life and access to amenities inside a warzone bunker. Rationing papers, gas masks, dimming lamps, food boxes and technological installations are just some of the exhibits you can browse through here. Guided public tours take place often and audiovisual imagery and videos are played here on a constant basis. If you want to know more about the life in a warzone bunker, then the Zivilschutz Museum is where you need to be headed.
Explore the quiet beauty of Zurich on foot, with knowledgeable guides from Free Walking Tours Zurich to enlighten you every step of the way. Choose from a bevy of tour types, each tour unearthing an interesting nugget of the city. The Downtown Zurich Tour takes you around Paradeplatz, Lindenhof, Niederhof and other hidden gems, while the city's Historical Tour helps you understand the Medieval charm of the city. Other free tour options include the Langstrasse Tour, the New in Zurich Tour and the Zurich West Tour. While the tours are tagged free, it is imperative to note that the organizers do appreciate tips and donations.
Museum Stemmler was founded by animal rights activist Carl Stemmler in his very home. Perhaps in response to his station as the heir to a furrier business, Stemmler dedicated his later life to conservationism and taxidermy, having had years to observe the animals whose pelts were so prized. The collection includes taxidermy of creatures from across Europe and Siberia like foxes and foals. Particularly interesting to Stemmler and heavily featured in the museum are birds of prey, notably eagles and vultures. Visitors to the museum also have access to Stemmler's extensive writings on the life cycles of golden eagles and bearded vultures. If you're traveling through Schaffhausen and interested in animals, stop by All Saints Abbey where Museum Stemmler is housed.
Scala Wetzikon showcases a plethora of events ranging from concerts, plays, business presentations, corporate events as well as private functions. The venue has three spaces which include the hall, bar and lounge that boast minimalistic interior and modern technology to adapt to any kind of event. Their efficient service ensures each event is a treat to the guests.
Teatro Palino is a modest theater situated in the basement of the popular UnvermeidBAR that plays host to local actors and theater groups. This quaint theater is often used for practice sessions, rehearsals, live music performances and theater shows amongst many others. Teatro Palino has a total of three stages, each stage being fully customizable and flexible makes it ideal for all kinds of events and performances. Teatro Palino has been entertaining the fans of performing arts and music in the neighborhood for many decades.