Zytglogge Clock Tower
LandmarkAbout
The Zytglogge Clock Tower is a medieval landmark in Bern, Switzerland, built in the early 13th century. Initially serving as a gate tower for the city's western fortifications, it has evolved over the centuries to become a prison, clock tower, and civic memorial. The tower's architecture reflects its complex history, combining medieval, Gothic, and Baroque elements. A significant fire in 1405 led to its conversion into a clock tower, earning it the name "Zytglogge," meaning "time bell" in Bernese German. Today, the Zytglogge is renowned for its astronomical clock, installed in the 15th century, which displays celestial events and features moving figures like a dancing bear and a crowing rooster. Visitors can explore the tower through guided tours, learning about its history and mechanics while enjoying panoramic views of Bern's Old Town. The Zytglogge is a Cultural Property of National Significance and a major tourist attraction, symbolizing Bern's rich past and technological advancements of its time.
