THE CITY OF ZŰRICH
Monopoly players in the U.S. know that landing on “Boardwalk” can be an expensive proposition. In the Swiss version of the game it’s “Paradeplatz” in the heart of Zürich’s business and financial district. Chocolate lovers will know that Sprüngli is located there. A quick train ride will take you into town from the airport. Before heading down the Bahnhofstrasse from the main train station to Paradeplatz and the Lake of Zürich, you might want to visit the Swiss National Museum which is located behind the train station. It’s a fascinating museum which documents the cultural history of Switzerland. The “period rooms” and the exhibits in the Armory Tower are some of my favorites.
One of the “must do” things after your visit to the Landesmuseun is to take a leisurely stroll along the river bank and head to Niederdorf, Zürich’s old city, or “Dörfli” as many call it. From the train station just cross over the river and follow Limmatquai toward the lake. Don’t hesitate to explore the little side streets, corners and nooks along the way. You’ll see some beautiful medieval & Renaissance houses, many restaurants and lots of shopping opportunities. One of the interesting spots to visit in the old city, if you’re an art lover or lover of the absurd, is the birthplace of Dadaism, the Cabaret Voltaire named after the author of Candide.
There are many traditions associated with the coming of spring. In the U.S. if Punxsutawney Phil when coming out of hibernation doesn’t see his shadow an early spring is forecast. Zürich has its own tradition dating back to the 16th century. This festival combines the “Sächsilüüte” (6 o’clock ringing of the bells as established by the old Zürich guilds) and the burning of the Böög (a bogeyman in the shape of a huge snowman) to drive out the winter and herald in the spring. The burning of the Böög is preceded by a parade of trades people & craftsmen dressed in historic costumes, by marching bands including fifers & drummers, and school children in regional costumes. At 6 o’clock a bonfire under the Böög is lighted. The quicker the head of the Bogeyman explodes (it’s stuffed with firecrackers and explosives) the finer the summer will be. The Sechseläuten Festival takes place the 3rd Monday of April.
Before leaving Zürich take some time to visit Markthalle im Viadukt, a trendy shopping area on the west side of town created under 36 viaduct arches. It’s a great place to stroll, check out the many food stalls, restaurants and specialty shops. It’s easily accessible by streetcar. During a future visit we’ll introduce you to Pestalozzi, the father of modern education, show you Marc Chagall’s church windows, visit the Blinde Kuh, and lots of other neat places in Zürich.
Check out the Videos & websites by clicking on the highlighted links above.
Monopoly players in the U.S. know that landing on “Boardwalk” can be an expensive proposition. In the Swiss version of the game it’s “Paradeplatz” in the heart of Zürich’s business and financial district. Chocolate lovers will know that Sprüngli is located there. A quick train ride will take you into town from the airport. Before heading down the Bahnhofstrasse from the main train station to Paradeplatz and the Lake of Zürich, you might want to visit the Swiss National Museum which is located behind the train station. It’s a fascinating museum which documents the cultural history of Switzerland. The “period rooms” and the exhibits in the Armory Tower are some of my favorites.
One of the “must do” things after your visit to the Landesmuseun is to take a leisurely stroll along the river bank and head to Niederdorf, Zürich’s old city, or “Dörfli” as many call it. From the train station just cross over the river and follow Limmatquai toward the lake. Don’t hesitate to explore the little side streets, corners and nooks along the way. You’ll see some beautiful medieval & Renaissance houses, many restaurants and lots of shopping opportunities. One of the interesting spots to visit in the old city, if you’re an art lover or lover of the absurd, is the birthplace of Dadaism, the Cabaret Voltaire named after the author of Candide.
There are many traditions associated with the coming of spring. In the U.S. if Punxsutawney Phil when coming out of hibernation doesn’t see his shadow an early spring is forecast. Zürich has its own tradition dating back to the 16th century. This festival combines the “Sächsilüüte” (6 o’clock ringing of the bells as established by the old Zürich guilds) and the burning of the Böög (a bogeyman in the shape of a huge snowman) to drive out the winter and herald in the spring. The burning of the Böög is preceded by a parade of trades people & craftsmen dressed in historic costumes, by marching bands including fifers & drummers, and school children in regional costumes. At 6 o’clock a bonfire under the Böög is lighted. The quicker the head of the Bogeyman explodes (it’s stuffed with firecrackers and explosives) the finer the summer will be. The Sechseläuten Festival takes place the 3rd Monday of April.
Before leaving Zürich take some time to visit Markthalle im Viadukt, a trendy shopping area on the west side of town created under 36 viaduct arches. It’s a great place to stroll, check out the many food stalls, restaurants and specialty shops. It’s easily accessible by streetcar. During a future visit we’ll introduce you to Pestalozzi, the father of modern education, show you Marc Chagall’s church windows, visit the Blinde Kuh, and lots of other neat places in Zürich.
Check out the Videos & websites by clicking on the highlighted links above.
