Landesmuseum (Swiss National Museum), Zurich (must see)

The Swiss National Museum is one of the key art museums of cultural history in the world. The museum was born out of the desire to create a national museum which would be the treasure of the young federal state of Switzerland. Nation Councilmember Salomon Vogelin proposed the construction of a national museum, and, after much debate, a site in Zurich was selected. The building that houses the museum was constructed in 1989. Gustav Gull, a Swiss architect and teacher, designed the building to look like a French Renaissance city chateau.

The museum features a wide range of art and the visitor will see a sample from ancient times and the Middle Ages up to 20th-century. Some of the more unique collections in the museum include a gothic art section, liturgical wooden sculpture, carved alters and chivalry-related art. There is also a section on the history of Switzerland that displays traditional costumes and clothing. The section on Swiss furniture design is a nice juxtaposition to the older items in the space. The museum features regularly rotating exhibits.

Why You Should Visit:
To learn about all aspects of Swiss history – from religion, demographics, archeology, industry to even topographical evolution and more.
The archaeology exhibition is particularly impressive thanks to the animated/interactive displays.