Brazil
Argentina
Chile
Colombia
Peru
Uruguay
Germany
Belgium
Spain
France
Greece
the Netherlands
Ireland
Italy
Portugal
the United Kingdom
Fortification · Lucerna, Lucerna
Museggmauer
Section of Lucerne's old city wall, about 870 m long with nine towers, four of them open from April to October, offering views over the roofs, the lake and the Alps.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
Discover
About Museggmauer
The Museggmauer is the best-preserved part of Lucerne's medieval defences. The wall runs along the Musegg hill, north of the Altstadt, stretching about 870 m and with nine towers. Construction began around 1370 and continued, with interruptions, through the 15th century.
Four towers are open to the public: Männliturm, Wachtturm, Zytturm and Schirmerturm. Wooden staircases lead to the top of each, and part of the rampart walk can be followed between them. From up there you can see the old town roofs, the lake and, in clear weather, the Pilatus and the Alps.
The Zytturm has a clock made in 1535 by Hans Luterer and still in operation. By tradition it strikes the hour one minute before Lucerne’s other clocks. The dial is large so that fishermen on the lake could read the time.
The wall and towers are open from April 1 to November 1 during the day; they are closed at night and in winter.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
One to one and a half hours to climb all four towers.
Best time
On a clear day, in the morning or at the end of the afternoon, between April and the end of October. The Männliturm, at the western tip, offers the most open view over the city.
How to get there
It is about a 15-minute walk from the station. Via the Altstadt, climb the narrow streets from the Weinmarkt or start near the Spreuerbrücke at the western end.
Tip
The towers' staircases are narrow and steep; wear closed shoes. Start at the Schirmerturm, in the middle, or at the Männliturm and walk east.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Museggmauer
Which towers of the Museggmauer can you climb?
Four: Männliturm, Wachtturm, Zytturm and Schirmerturm.
Is the Museggmauer open in winter?
No. It is open from April 1 to November 1 and closes at night.
What is special about the clock of the Zytturm?
It dates from 1535 and, by tradition, strikes the hour one minute before the city's other clocks.