Amtshaus I building in Zürich with bright blue sky

Waisenhaus Zürich

Waisenhaus Zürich Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Travel Guide

Date: 15/06/2025

Introduction

Nestled in Zürich’s historic center, the Waisenhaus Zürich stands as a powerful symbol of the city’s social welfare legacy, architectural evolution, and adaptive urban development. Established in the 17th century within the former Oetenbach nunnery, the building has transitioned from an orphanage and penitentiary to a model institution for child welfare reform, and now serves as the headquarters of the Stadtpolizei Zürich (city police department). While interior access is limited, the building’s baroque façade and presence in the cityscape make it an essential stop for anyone interested in Zürich’s layered history (Wikipedia; Antiquarische; World Cities Culture Forum).

This guide explores the Waisenhaus Zürich’s historical origins, social impact, architectural milestones, and practical information for visitors, including hours, accessibility, guided tours, and key nearby attractions.

Amtshaus I building in Zürich with modern architecture under clear sky

Historic engraving of Bullinger Waisenhaus orphanage in Zürich from 1778

Former orphanage building in Zurich before 1907

Cover page of Handbüchlein Schmidlin Lavater book published in 1769

Panorama of Zurich in 1825 featuring Kloster Oetenbach and the Schipfe water pumping station with water wheel on the riverbank

Spyri Waisenhaus orphanage building in Zürich in 1871

Orphanage in 1812 south view engraving by Franz Hegi

Waisenhausbollwerk with Gedeckte Brüggli and Waisenhaus in sepia tone

Cover of Waisenhauslieder by Georg Gessner, published in 1795

Front page of 'Waisenhauslieder' by Lavater published in 1772

Historic illustration of the Zentralbibliothek Zürich and the New Orphanage pathway in Zurich

Historical view of Zentralbibliothek Zürich and surrounding buildings at midnight

Central Library Zurich from Schutzenplatz against Waysenhausse

Cityscape view from the Polytechnic with barracks including Urania-Wache, Amtshaus I, Alte Kaserne in Zurich

Waisenhaus building in Zurich featuring historic architecture with ornate details and statues

Historic Waisenhaus and Grün Hüsli buildings with German inscriptions on the walls and a boat named Metzgerbrau on the water in Zürich

Introduction
Historical Origins and Institutional Development
Social Reforms and Child Welfare Innovation
Architectural Evolution and Urban Context
Visiting the Waisenhaus Zürich: Practical Information
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Conclusion
References

Historical Origins and Institutional Development

The Waisenhaus Zürich originated during the aftermath of the Reformation, when monastic buildings were repurposed for social welfare. In 1637, the Oetenbach nunnery’s north wing was converted into an orphanage, while the west wing became a penitentiary. This dual-purpose “Zucht- und Waisenhaus” reflected early modern European approaches to managing poverty—combining discipline with care for the vulnerable (Wikipedia; Children’s Homes).

Over the next century, the orphanage’s structure and practices evolved, emphasizing strict discipline and compulsory labor, such as weaving and spinning, as tools for moral reform and self-sufficiency (Antiquarische). In 1771, a new orphanage was constructed in the former nunnery’s garden, separating the institution from the penitentiary and marking a progressive shift in child care (Everything Explained Today).

The 19th century saw significant liberal reforms. The 1837 orphanage ordinance abolished compulsory child labor, replacing it with a focus on education and integration into public life (Antiquarische). Orphans gained the right to attend public schools, aligning with broader Swiss educational reforms and recognizing children’s rights to learning and development.

These measures were pioneering for their time, influencing child welfare practices in Zürich and beyond, and helping to improve opportunities for orphaned and abandoned children.

Architectural Evolution and Urban Context

The Waisenhaus has undergone several architectural transformations. After the orphans’ move in 1771, many original convent buildings were demolished. The orphanage itself was rebuilt between 1868 and 1878, with significant modifications in 1890, including the creation of the Giacometti entrance hall (Wikipedia; Everything Explained Today). In 1911, it became the headquarters of the Stadtpolizei Zürich following new municipal construction by architect Gustav Gull. The Giacometti Halle, adorned between 1923 and 1925 by artist Augusto Giacometti, is now recognized as a Swiss cultural treasure.

Today, the building at Bahnhofquai 3 is the last surviving structure of the Oetenbach nunnery, serving as a vital link to Zürich’s medieval and modern heritage (World Cities Culture Forum).

Visiting the Waisenhaus Zürich: Practical Information

Location and Accessibility

Address: Bahnhofquai 3, Zürich (near Hauptbahnhof and Bahnhofbrücke)
Public Transport: Easily reached by tram, bus, or on foot from Zürich Main Station
Accessibility: The area is wheelchair accessible with ramps and accessible public transport options

Visiting Hours and Tickets

Exterior Viewing: Open daily, dawn to dusk; no tickets required
Interior Access: Not open for regular public tours due to its use as the city police headquarters
Special Access: Occasional public events and guided tours (such as during Zurich Museum Night) offer limited interior access, especially to the Giacometti Halle (Zurich Museum Night)

Guided Tours and Events

Guided walking tours by local cultural organizations and the Zürich Tourist Information Center may include the Waisenhaus exterior and nearby historical sites
Special events, such as open houses and art exhibitions, provide rare opportunities to visit the Giacometti Halle

Nearby Attractions

Swiss National Museum: In-depth exhibits on Swiss history and culture (Swiss National Museum)
Lindenhof: Historic park with panoramic city views
Grossmünster & Fraumünster: Iconic churches with significant art and architecture
Bahnhofstrasse: Zürich’s renowned shopping street
Altstadt (Old Town): Medieval streets and vibrant cafés (Zürich Old Town)

Photography Tips

The best times for exterior photography are early morning and late afternoon for optimal lighting
Interior photography is permitted only during special events with authorization

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Can I tour the inside of the Waisenhaus Zürich?
A: Interior tours are not generally available, except during special cultural events or guided tours.

Q2: Is there an entrance fee?
A: No fee is required to view the exterior; fees may apply for special tours or events.

Q3: Is the site accessible for people with disabilities?
A: Yes, the surrounding area is wheelchair accessible and public transport is adapted for mobility needs.

Q4: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, local tour operators and the Zürich Tourist Information Center offer walking tours that may include the Waisenhaus.

Q5: Where can I find more information?
A: Visit the official Zürich tourism website or inquire at the Tourist Information Center at Zürich Main Station.

Waisenhaus Zürich Exterior The historic Waisenhaus Zürich at Bahnhofquai 3—an enduring symbol of social reform and adaptive reuse.

Conclusion

The Waisenhaus Zürich is a unique testament to Zürich’s commitment to social progress, heritage preservation, and architectural adaptation. While public access to the interior is limited, the building’s rich history and baroque presence make it a rewarding landmark for travelers exploring Zürich’s historical and cultural fabric. Combine your visit with guided tours, special events, and nearby attractions to experience the full depth of Zürich’s legacy.

For the latest information on visiting hours, tours, and events, consult the official Zürich tourism website and keep an eye out for cultural happenings that may grant special access.

Download the Audiala app for personalized travel guides, explore more of Zürich’s heritage, and follow us on social media for updates and insider tips!