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History · Zürich, Zürich

St. Peter's Church

  • EraMedieval and baroque (13th-18th century)
  • AdmissionFree
  • HoursApprox. Mon-Fri 8AM-6PM, Sat 9AM-4PM, Sun 11AM-5PM

St. Peter's Church stands on a small square just below the Lindenhof and has an early medieval predecessor on its site. The tower, built in the 13th century, carries a clock face 8.7 metres across that dates back to 1534 and is the largest church clock face in Europe. The nave was rebuilt in the baroque style between 1705 and 1706 as one of the first Protestant preaching halls in the region.

One of Zürich's oldest parish churches, carrying the largest church clock face in Europe.

St. Peter's Church stands on a small square just below the Lindenhof and has an early medieval predecessor on its site. The tower, built in the 13th century, carries a clock face 8.7 metres across that dates back to 1534 and is the largest church clock face in Europe. The nave was rebuilt in the baroque style between 1705 and 1706 as one of the first Protestant preaching halls in the region. The interior is simple and bright, and the church holds concerts as well as services. Zürich's city watchman once lived in the tower. The church sits near Bahnhofstrasse and is a brief stop on any old-town walk.

Practical information for St. Peter's Church · Last updated September 2026
Admission Free
Hours Approx. Mon-Fri 8AM-6PM, Sat 9AM-4PM, Sun 11AM-5PM
Address St. Peterhofstatt 1, 8001 Zürich, Switzerland

Why it matters

A civic landmark known for its record-size clock and its early Reformed preaching hall.

Location

St. Peterhofstatt 1, 8001 Zürich, Switzerland

47.3711, 8.5412 View on map

Highlights

  • Europe's largest church clock face (8.7 m)
  • Baroque preaching hall nave
  • Small square beneath the Lindenhof
  • Concert venue with good acoustics

Tips for visiting

  • Look for concerts on the church website
  • Pair with the Lindenhof
  • The tower is not open to the public

When to visit

Weekday mornings or during a concert.

Accessibility

Main entrance is step-free from the square; the approach streets are cobbled.

Frequently asked questions

How large is the clock?

The clock face is 8.7 metres in diameter, the largest church clock face in Europe.

Is entry free?

Yes, entry to the church is free.