Old Armoury

Visiting Altes Zeughaus: History, Tickets, and Tips

Date: 25/07/2024

Introduction

Nestled within the charming old town of Solothurn, Switzerland, the Altes Zeughaus stands as a testament to the region’s rich military history and architectural heritage. Originally constructed in the early 17th century, this robust building served as an armory, a secure storage for weapons and military equipment. Over the centuries, it has been meticulously preserved and transformed into a museum, offering visitors an immersive journey through Switzerland’s military past. The Altes Zeughaus houses the largest collection of armor in Switzerland, with over 400 suits from the 15th to 17th centuries. This collection, along with various weapons and military artifacts, provides a fascinating glimpse into the evolution of warfare and the craftsmanship of the time. The museum is a cultural beacon in Solothurn, educating visitors on the broader historical contexts of these artifacts and encouraging reflections on themes such as civil courage and the cost of peace (Kanton Solothurn, Museum Altes Zeughaus).

Introduction
History
- Architectural Heritage
- Evolution into a Museum
Visitor Information
FAQ
Conclusion

History

Architectural Heritage

The Altes Zeughaus, or Old Arsenal, has been a prominent feature of Solothurn’s cityscape for over 400 years. Constructed in the early 17th century, this historic building originally served as an armory, storing weapons and military equipment for the citizens of Solothurn and mercenaries who fought in foreign wars. The building’s robust architecture, characterized by its thick walls and fortified structure, reflects its original purpose as a secure storage facility for arms and armor. The preservation of its armory character, even after its conversion into a museum, is a testament to its architectural and historical significance (Kanton Solothurn).

Evolution into a Museum

The transformation of the Altes Zeughaus into a museum began in the 18th century, with the building being used for museal purposes. By 1907, it was exclusively dedicated to serving as a museum. This transition marked a significant shift in the building’s role, from a functional military storage facility to a cultural and historical repository. The museum’s focus on military history, particularly its extensive collection of arms and armor, has made it a unique institution in Switzerland (Museum Altes Zeughaus).

Visitor Information

Collection Highlights

The Altes Zeughaus houses the largest collection of armor in Switzerland, with over 400 suits of armor from the 15th to the 17th centuries displayed in its Rüstsaal, or armory hall. This collection includes a variety of polearms, edged weapons, and firearms, showcasing the evolution of weaponry over several centuries. The museum’s exhibits are not only a testament to the craftsmanship and technological advancements of the time but also provide insights into the military history and practices of the period (myswitzerland.com).

Cultural and Educational Impact

The Altes Zeughaus plays a crucial role in preserving and presenting the military history of Solothurn and Switzerland. Its exhibitions are designed to educate visitors about the development and use of weapons, as well as the broader historical context in which these items were used. The museum also encourages visitors to reflect on themes such as civil courage and the cost of peace, making it a place of both historical learning and contemporary relevance (Kanton Solothurn).

Recent Renovations

In June 2016, the Altes Zeughaus reopened after an extensive interior renovation and a reorientation of its permanent exhibition. This renovation aimed to enhance the visitor experience by providing a more comprehensive and engaging presentation of the museum’s collection. The updated exhibition includes mass displays reminiscent of the building’s original armory function, as well as selected objects that illustrate the development and use of weapons. These changes have helped to preserve the historical integrity of the building while making its exhibits more accessible and informative for contemporary audiences (myswitzerland.com).

Accessibility and Visitor Information

The Altes Zeughaus is conveniently located in the heart of Solothurn’s old town, near the St. Ursenkathedrale. It is easily accessible by foot from the Solothurn train station, making it an ideal destination for both local and international visitors. The museum is open from Tuesday to Saturday, 13:00 to 17:00, and on Sundays from 10:00 to 17:00. For those traveling by car, several parking facilities are available nearby, with the Baseltor parking garage being the closest (Museum Altes Zeughaus).

Tickets and Guided Tours

The entry fee for the Altes Zeughaus is CHF 10 for adults, CHF 8 for seniors and students, and free for children under 16. The museum also offers guided tours, which can be booked in advance. These tours provide a deeper insight into the exhibits and are available in multiple languages (Museum Altes Zeughaus).

Nearby Attractions

While visiting the Altes Zeughaus, consider exploring other historical sites in Solothurn such as the St. Ursenkathedrale, the Zeitglockenturm, and the historic old town. These sites offer a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of Solothurn and complement your visit to the museum (myswitzerland.com).

FAQ

What are the visiting hours for Altes Zeughaus? The museum is open from Tuesday to Saturday, 13:00 to 17:00, and on Sundays from 10:00 to 17:00.

How much do tickets cost for Altes Zeughaus? The entry fee is CHF 10 for adults, CHF 8 for seniors and students, and free for children under 16.

Are there guided tours available? Yes, guided tours are available and can be booked in advance.

What are some nearby attractions? Nearby attractions include the St. Ursenkathedrale, the Zeitglockenturm, and the historic old town of Solothurn.

Conclusion

The Altes Zeughaus stands as a significant historical and cultural landmark in Solothurn. Its rich history, extensive collection of arms and armor, and educational exhibits make it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in military history and the cultural heritage of Switzerland. For the latest updates and more information, download the mobile app Audiala or follow us on social media. Plan your visit today and immerse yourself in the fascinating world of the Altes Zeughaus (myswitzerland.com, Museum Altes Zeughaus).