This renowned religious site is known as the Fraumünster Abbey, or the Church of Our Lady. The abbey is a former Gothic-style convent for women that is now one of the top attractions in Zurich.
Located in Zurich’s most important pilgrimage center along the Limmat River, the abbey is famous for its five stunning northern stained-glass windows.
Created by Augusto Giacometti in 1970, these windows are referred to as the Celestial Paradise. It is undoubtedly one of the most spectacular sights in the city. If you plan to visit museums and do various activities, it’s a good idea to get the Zurich Card (available for purchase here), which allows you to:
- Use public transportation as much as you like
- Enjoy free or discounted entry to 20 museums
- Take a free boat ride on the lake
- Receive discounts at shops and activities
History of Fraumünster Abbey
The monastery was initially established by King Louis II and granted ecclesiastical immunity, making it Zurich’s primary Christian stronghold. By 1045, the abbey had been given the right to collect taxes, participate in trade, and mint its own coins.
With these privileges, the abbess of Fraumünster became one of Zurich’s most influential figures. In 1218, Fraumünster Abbey was recognized as an independent authority.
Two hundred years later, this congregation was dissolved by the more radical supporters of the 14th-century Lutheran Reformation. A key figure in the dissolution of Fraumünster was Ulrich Zwingli, a Lutheran reformer who served under the Pope and was ultimately killed by Catholics.
Architecture, façade, and description of the abbey
Founded in 853 AD by Louis the German and his two daughters, Zurich’s abbey was originally established for noblewomen from southern Germany. Construction began in 1250 under the Order of Saint Benedict on the lands of Zurich and the Albis Forest.
Over the centuries, various architectural elements were added to the structure, reflecting the styles of different eras. For example, the façade was renovated in 1811 in a Neo-Gothic style (also known as the historicist art style).
Fraumünster Abbey remains a place where Zurich’s rich history and spiritual heritage converge, offering visitors a unique view into the city’s medieval roots and architectural evolution.
Originally, the façade of Fraumünster was designed in a Romanesque style, and today we can admire a historically preserved building with a modern touch. One of the main attractions of this temple is the clock tower. Located in the iconic green bell tower, it can be seen from many parts of the city.
Another feature that makes this sanctuary so significant is its famous stained glass windows. The five northern stained glass windows date back to 1970, and the southern transept window from 1980. Created by Chagall, these windows depict biblical scenes.
Visiting the interior of the abbey
Inside, visitors can learn more about the 16th-century Lutheran Reformation, its history, and the meaning behind the Fraumünster windows. The abbey’s interior is filled with vibrant stained glass, alongside smaller artworks that reflect Zurich’s cultural evolution.
The paintings here depict the saints who founded the city.
Those visiting for peace, reflection, or a personal pause have free access to the abbey. For those seeking prayer time, the Marienkapelle, or Chapel of Mary, is available as a dedicated prayer space.
The crypt museum is also open to visitors, with a maximum capacity of 20 people. For an enhanced experience, a crypt guide booklet is recommended. This crypt area still contains remnants of the original building, including parts of a 9th-century stone church. It opened to the public in 2014/2015.
Some of the most remarkable sights include:
The spectacular stained glass windows
The abbey’s decor is highlighted by impressive stained glass windows depicting God, the four evangelists, Christ, and eight prophets. These works are by Swiss artists Augusto Giacometti and Marc Chagall.
The five multicolored stained glass windows in the Fraumünster Abbey stand at a height of ten meters. These masterpieces illustrate important biblical events, with Chagall depicting the stories of Jacob, Christ, the Law of Moses, and the prophets.
Another of Chagall’s masterpieces in the Fraumünster Abbey is the rose window in the southern transept.
The green bell tower
A signature element in European architecture, the green bell tower of the Fraumünster Church stands tall.
This tower atop the monastery is a reminder of its historic roots and is one of Zurich’s most eye-catching landmarks.
In fact, it’s the first part of the monastery visitors see as they approach the abbey. Today, it remains one of the city’s most visited areas.
Paul Bodmer’s frescoes
A collection of frescoes by Swiss artist Paul Bodmer, created between 1921 and 1941, also stands out inside Zurich’s Fraumünster Abbey.
Fraumünster’s architectural and artistic features—from stained glass to frescoes—make it a cultural treasure and a must-see destination for any visitor.
These frescoes depict the founding of the convent and the story of its founders, such as Hildegard, daughter of Louis II.
These works of art adorn the south side of the church.
Romanesque Cloister
The abbey’s original architectural style features a Romanesque cloister with rounded arches grouped in sets of three. This perfect symmetry gives form to the windows, some of which open toward the garden.
Many cloisters from this era were impacted by religious reforms, and the abbey was no exception. In 1911, the main façade underwent extensive design renovations, which replaced many original details with a Neo-Gothic style.
In this new style, human figures began to appear in the design. The Romanesque Cloister style holds symbolic meaning, portraying a world where monks, in the company of their brothers, can connect with nature.
Guided Tours
Fraumünster offers customized guided tours led by trained staff. Those interested in joining the Fraumünster staff can apply by emailing [email protected].
Group visits must be registered and scheduled in advance at www.fraumuenster.ch/visitors. The registration fee for these groups is three Swiss francs.
Useful Information
- Audio Guide
Since June 2016, the abbey has provided an audio guide system.
This system helps visitors explore the historical details of the Fraumünster Church.
The audio guide also offers information on the Fraumünster crypt exhibition, recently opened to the public.
There are two ways to use the audio guide: the touchscreen guide and the traditional audio guide.
If the device has a touchscreen and a large display, this combination makes for an ideal tour experience.
- Accessibility
For visually impaired visitors, an alternative keyboard is available, providing accessible and easy-to-use information.
Hearing-impaired visitors have access to a guided tour system with text and images.
- Stained Glass Exhibition
Entry to the stained glass exhibition costs five Swiss francs.
This includes an audio guide available in multiple languages, providing detailed explanations of the history and meaning behind each stained glass window.
- Guidelines
Please note that cameras, mobile phones, and computers are not permitted inside the abbey, nor is bringing food and drinks.
Dogs and other animals must remain outside, so it’s best to leave them at home.
Visitors should also be mindful of their attire. As a sacred space, appropriate clothing is required.
Admission to Fraumünster in Zurich
Admission for tourists is five Swiss francs, granting access to all areas of the abbey.
However, visitors who do not wish to enter the crypt museum or use the audio guide and brochure can enter for free.
Admission is also free for children under 16.
Fraumünster Abbey Hours
The abbey is open to the public daily, except during services and events.
Operating hours are as follows:
- Jan – Feb: 10 am – 5 pm
- Mar – Oct: 10 am – 6 pm
- Nov – Dec: 10 am – 4 pm
Contact Information
For more information on the Fraumünster Abbey, you can reach out through:
- Website: http://www.fraumuenster.ch
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/fraumuenster
- Email: [email protected]