Bell hoisting at the newly constructed tower of the Predigerkirche in Zurich on October 11, 1900

Preachers Monastery

Preachers Monastery (Predigerkloster) Zurich: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Sites Guide

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction

Located in the heart of Zürich’s Old Town, the Predigerkloster (Preachers Monastery) and its adjoining Predigerkirche invite visitors to experience centuries of religious, architectural, and cultural history. Established by the Dominican Order in the early 13th century, the monastery played a pivotal role in Zürich’s growth as a religious center before its transformation during the Protestant Reformation. Today, the Predigerkirche stands as both a preserved architectural treasure and a vibrant venue for spiritual and cultural events. This comprehensive guide details the history, significance, visiting hours, ticketing, accessibility, and practical tips for making the most of your visit to this remarkable Zürich landmark.

For authoritative information on the monastery’s history and visitor details, refer to Zürich Tourism and the Stadt Zürich PDF.

Historic hospital plan by Johannes Müller from 1784 showing detailed architectural layout

Historical map section of Zurich showing Predigerkloster on Müllerplan from 1793

The Predigerkloster depicted on the Müllerplan map from 1793

Courtyard of the old hospital at the Predigerkirche in Zurich in the 19th century

Historical illustration of Predigerkirche Zürich church from 1742

Historic view of Predigerkirche church in Zurich after fire and demolition of convent buildings in 1887

Buildings of the former Predigerkloster in Zurich after the fire on June 25-26, 1887

Predigerkloster and Spital in Zurich on the 1576 Murerplan map

View of the Predigerquartier in Zurich from the Polyterrace before 1878

Historical family tree of the Zurich hospital nurses

Zürich cityscape featuring long pier, Niederdorf tower and gate, and Predigerkirche church

schematic view of the cloister courtyard northern wing of the former Prediger Monastery in Zurich

Floor plan of the cloister of the former Predigerkloster in Zurich

Column in the cloister of the former Predigerkloster monastery in Zurich

Psalm 150 artwork with musical instruments for praising God, backdrop featuring Predigerkirche Zurich church

Central Library Zurich with Prediger Church in the background on a clear day

Interior of Predigerkirche church in Zurich with organ

Interior view of Predigerkirche in Zurich with organ and ornate architectural details

Interior view of Predigerkirche in Zurich featuring the organ

Interior view of Predigerkirche church with ornate organ in Zurich

Interior of Predigerkirche in Zurich with visible organ

Interior of Prediger Church in Zurich with organ and architectural details

Historic prospect view of Zentralbibliothek Zürich with surrounding gardens and adjacent buildings

View from Ketzerturm southeast over Unterer Hirschengraben with riders, walkers, carriage and deer; double house 'Im Berg' and house 'Zum Neuen Berg'

View of the Predigerkirche Zurich with symbolic representation of Psalm 108

Ruins of the Spitalbrand building after the fire in Zurich

View from Polyterrace of Predigerkloster in Zurich before 1915 construction of Central Library

Historic view of the Hirschen- and Seilergraben in Zurich around 1750 with the former Predigerkloster and city fortifications

Introduction
Historical Background and Foundations
Architectural Highlights and Preservation
Role in Zürich’s Civic and Religious Life
The Reformation and the Monastery’s Transformation
Visiting Predigerkirche: Hours, Tickets, and Accessibility
Visitor Tips and Etiquette
Nearby Attractions and Amenities
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Conclusion and Final Tips
References and Further Reading

Historical Background and Foundations

The Predigerkloster was founded in 1231 by the Dominican Order, known as the “Preachers,” during a period of rapid religious expansion in Europe. The Dominicans, celebrated for their roles in preaching, education, and combating heresy, established the monastery within Zürich’s city walls after initial opposition from the Grossmünster canons. By 1234, the monastery’s presence was firmly documented, and its location on a terrace by the Wolfbach stream and the Zürichberg slopes provided both strategic and spiritual advantages (Wikipedia, Stadt Zürich PDF).

Throughout the Middle Ages, the monastery became a center of education, charity, and religious debate. The Dominicans’ influence extended beyond the spiritual, impacting the city’s social and intellectual fabric.

Architectural Highlights and Preservation

Predigerkirche exemplifies a harmonious blend of Romanesque and Gothic architectural styles. The original Romanesque church, completed in 1231, was the largest in Zürich at the time. The 14th-century saw the construction of a magnificent Gothic choir (1308–1350), considered one of the region’s finest. The church’s nave, adorned with well-preserved 17th-century Baroque stucco, reflects later architectural evolution (Wikipedia, Stadt Zürich PDF).

While the monastery’s original buildings no longer stand, archaeological excavations have revealed the layout of cloisters, living quarters, and defensive walls, preserving the site’s historical legacy within Zürich’s urban landscape.

Role in Zürich’s Civic and Religious Life

During its peak, the Predigerkloster was integral to Zürich’s civic and religious life. The Dominicans provided sermons, confessions, and educational services, collaborating with the city hospital and engaging in charitable work (Zürich City Archives). The monastery was a hub of theological discussion and influenced Zürich’s political and cultural development.

The Reformation and the Monastery’s Transformation

The onset of the Protestant Reformation, led by Huldrych Zwingli in 1519, dramatically altered Zürich’s religious landscape. Zwingli’s reforms emphasized scripture’s authority and rejected monastic traditions. As a result, the city council dissolved the Predigerkloster in 1524, repurposing its assets for secular use and education (Zürich Tourism).

The church nave was adapted for use as a Reformed parish church from 1614 onward, a role it continues to fulfill today, hosting both religious services and cultural events.

Visiting Predigerkirche: Hours, Tickets, and Accessibility

Visiting Hours

Monday to Saturday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Sunday: 12:00 PM – 6:00 PM
Hours may vary for holidays or special events. Always check the official website before your visit.

Tickets and Admission

General Admission: Free
No tickets are required for individual visitors. Donations are welcomed to support ongoing preservation.

Accessibility

The church is wheelchair accessible via ramps at the main entrance.
Seating and mobility accommodations are available upon request.
Be aware that surrounding Old Town streets are cobblestoned and may be uneven.

Guided Tours and Events

Guided tours (in German, with private English tours available upon request) can be booked in advance and are especially recommended for those interested in deeper historical or architectural insights (Grossmünster Tours).
The church regularly hosts concerts, lectures, and community events. Check the parish website or local event listings for schedules.

Getting There

Address: Predigerplatz, 8001 Zürich, Switzerland
Public Transport: Trams 3, 4, 6, 7, 10, 15 stop at “Central” or “Rudolf-Brun-Brücke.”
Train: Zürich Hauptbahnhof (Main Station) is a 10-minute walk away.
Limited parking in Old Town; public transport is highly recommended.
Google Map location

Visitor Tips and Etiquette

Dress Code: Modest clothing (shoulders and knees covered) is appreciated.
Photography: Allowed without flash; be discreet, especially during services.
Best Time to Visit: Early mornings or late afternoons for fewer crowds. July is peak tourist season, so plan accordingly (Global Highlights).
Facilities: Wheelchair access at the entrance; restrooms nearby; no café on site, but many options in the surrounding Old Town.

Nearby Attractions and Amenities

Grossmünster: Zürich’s iconic twin-towered church, central to the Swiss Reformation (Grossmünster)
Fraumünster: Renowned for Chagall’s stained glass windows.
St. Peter’s Church: Features Europe’s largest church clock face.
Kunsthaus Zürich: The city’s main art museum (Living Nomads).
Bahnhofstrasse: Premier shopping boulevard.
Limmatquai: Picturesque riverside promenade.
Neumarkt: Historic square with cafés and shops.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the Predigerkloster visiting hours?
A: Typically, 10:00–18:00 daily (12:00–18:00 on Sundays), but check ahead for special events or holidays.

Q: Do I need tickets to visit Predigerkirche?
A: No, admission is free for individual visitors. Group tours require prior arrangement.

Q: Is the church wheelchair accessible?
A: Yes, ramps are available and the interior is largely level.

Q: Are guided tours available in English?
A: Public tours are usually in German; private English tours can be arranged through the parish or city tourism office.

Q: Can I take photos inside Predigerkirche?
A: Yes, but without flash and with respect for worshippers.

Q: Are there regular events or concerts?
A: Yes, the church hosts concerts, lectures, and community events throughout the year.

Conclusion and Final Tips

The Predigerkloster and its Predigerkirche are among Zürich’s most significant historical and architectural landmarks, embodying centuries of religious devotion and urban transformation. Free admission, central location, and accessibility make it a must-visit for travelers interested in Zürich’s medieval past and vibrant present. Enhance your experience by planning around opening hours, considering a guided tour, and exploring the wealth of nearby attractions.

For the latest updates, guided audio tours, and additional visitor tips, download the Audiala app and consult official Zürich tourism resources. The Predigerkloster stands as a living testament to Zürich’s enduring heritage—welcoming all who wish to explore its sacred halls and rich history (Zürich Tourism, Stadt Zürich PDF).

References and Further Reading

Images:

Exterior view of Predigerkirche with Gothic windows (alt text: “Predigerkirche Zürich exterior showcasing Gothic architecture”)
Interior nave with stained glass windows (alt text: “Interior of Predigerkirche Zürich with soaring nave and stained glass”)
Map showing Predigerkirche location in Zürich Old Town (alt text: “Map highlighting Predigerkirche in Zürich Old Town”)

Virtual Tour: Explore Predigerkirche Virtually