From prison to astronomical clock and puppet show: the Zytglogge in Bern from 1545

The Zytglogge is one of the most famous historical towers in Bern. Its name means something like "time bell" in Bernese German.

• Beginnings: The tower was built around 1218–1220 as part of the western city fortifications. At that time, it was located on the outskirts of the city and served as a defensive and watch tower.
• From prison to clock tower: As Bern grew in the 14th century and the city wall was expanded, the tower lost its original defensive function. At times, it also served as a prison. After a fire in 1405, it was rebuilt and received its large clock.
• The astronomical clock: The now-famous clock mechanism mainly dates from the 16th century. Among other things, it displays the time, the day of the week, the month, and the zodiac signs. Shortly before every hour, the clockwork figures move: the rooster crows, a jester rings the bell, and a procession of bears passes by.
• A landmark of the city: For centuries, the Zytglogge was an important orientation point and served as the official timekeeper for Bern. Today, it stands on Kramgasse and is part of the Old City of Bern, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site.

The Zytglogge is therefore not just a clock, but a structure that reflects Bern's development from a fortified medieval town into a significant historical city.