The Zytturm is the oldest clock in the city and traditionally rings one minute before the cathedral clock.
The tower was constructed in 1403 as part of the nine towers built to defend the city.
It is one of the few places where you can observe the internal mechanical escapement of a medieval tower clock in motion.
The clock face features large numbers intended to be readable from the ground, even for sailors on the lake.
The internal stairs are primarily original or restored historical timber, providing a steep, authentic climb.
The Museggmauer, including the Zytturm, survived the city's urban expansion which saw the destruction of most other medieval walls.
The Zytturm is the most prominent tower along Lucerne's historic Musegg Wall fortification system, originally built in 1403. It houses the city's official clock, which has the traditional privilege of chiming one minute before all other clocks in Lucerne. The tower interior functions as a clock museum, showcasing the complex mechanical movements and gears that have powered the timepiece for centuries. Visitors can climb a series of wooden staircases to reach the upper levels, where the inner workings and pendulum are visible. The structure features a distinctive large, ornate clock face on its exterior that is easily visible from the city center. As part of the Museggmauer complex, the tower offers a vantage point over the city's rooftops and Lake Lucerne. It remains one of the best-preserved segments of the medieval city wall. The current mechanism reflects centuries of maintenance and horological evolution.
The internal clock mechanism chamber from the upper landing, or the view of the city skyline through the tower's arched windows.
Wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes as the wooden stairs are steep and narrow.
Visit on a clear day to take advantage of the views from the top viewing platform.
Allow enough time to walk along the adjacent wall segments once you descend from the tower.
Attempting the climb if you have significant mobility issues or a fear of steep, enclosed heights.
Open only during the summer season (April through October).
