The National Museum Zurich is part of the Swiss National Museum. Under the auspices of the Swiss National Museum, three museums – the National Museum Zurich, Château de Prangins and the Forum of Swiss History Schwyz – and our Collections Centre in Affoltern am Albis are brought together. The museums showcase the history of Switzerland from its beginnings up to the present day, giving an insight into the Swiss identity and the rich tapestry of our country’s history and culture, with temporary exhibitions covering issues of current interest.
The 19th century is generally regarded as the century of nations and nation states. While other countries were busily erecting memorials, monuments and institutions, though, the young federal state of Switzerland was struggling with the idea of setting up a national museum. Plans to create one met with widespread scepticism, and there were also entirely pragmatic reasons for rejecting the enterprise. Almost every one of the cantons had its own collections, reflecting the federal character of the young state. However, encouraged by the popularity of the national art exhibition organised as part of the Swiss national exhibition in Zurich, in 1883 National Council member Salomon Vögelin of Zurich launched the discussion on the founding of a national museum.
www.landesmuseum.ch - 9973 - Swiss National Museum
