ETH Zurich Tour: In Semper's Footsteps
Central Plateau, Zurich
Semper isn't just the architect of famous buildings, he also designed the ETH main building. Follow in his footsteps! You'll hear about the life and work of the professor. Highlight: Visit to the Semper Auditorium
This is a 60-minute guided tour of ETH Zurich’s main building, exploring architect Gottfried Semper’s work and the restored Semper Auditorium.
Highlights
- Visit to the Semper Auditorium
- Explore Gottfried Semper’s architectural contributions
- Discover lesser-known aspects of Semper’s life and work
Description
Gottfried Semper designed notable buildings such as the Vienna Hofburg and Dresden Opera House, as well as ETH Zurich’s main building. This tour takes you through the monumental 1860s structure, revealing insights into Semper’s career as an architecture professor.
The highlight is the newly restored Semper Auditorium, usually closed to the public. The room features elaborate stucco decorations, golden contours, and canvas paintings created in Paris. Its ceiling contains one of the largest mid-19th century paintings, covering 180 square meters.
The late-classical auditorium is rich in symbolism and architectural detail, offering a unique experience for visitors.
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible: Contact barrierefreie-tours@ethz.ch at least three days before the tour to arrange. Include the tour title and date in your email subject.
- Sign language tours available: Contact the same address at least two weeks before the tour to request a sign language guide, including the tour title and date in your subject line.
Includes
- 60-minute guided tour across the ETH Zurich campus
- Student guide leading the tour
Excludes
- Food and drink
- Transportation to the meeting point
Important Information
- Insurance and waiver details: www.ethz.ch/buchungsbedingungen
- Accessibility contacts as above for wheelchair and sign language options
Cancellation Policy
Full refund available if cancelled up to 24 hours before the tour.
Book in advance to secure your spot and contact accessibility services early if needed. Wear comfortable shoes for walking across the campus.
