Museum Altes Zeughaus Solothurn
About This Museum
Tucked away in Switzerland's oldest Baroque town, the Museum Altes Zeughaus presents a startling spectacle: it is home to one of Europe's largest and most exquisite collections of medieval armoury, yet feels more like a cathedral for the art of war than a dusty archive. You don't just see history here; you feel the weight of it in the gleaming rows of 16th-century pikes and the silent gaze of full suits of Gothic plate armour. The sheer density of objects—over 400 firearms and countless halberds—creates an almost overwhelming tapestry of martial craftsmanship. It’s a place that manages to be both awe-inspiring and surprisingly intimate, connecting you directly to the soldiers and artisans of a bygone era.
Collection Highlights
Look for the lavishly etched wheel-lock rifles, which are more like royal jewelry than weapons, and don't miss the imposing Landsknecht armor that towers over the main hall. The collection of ornate ceremonial banners provides a vibrant splash of color against the steel and wood.
Visitor Information
Find it right in the heart of Solothurn's beautiful old town at Zeughausplatz 1; it's the kind of museum where you can easily lose a couple of hours without noticing.
Architecture & Building
Housed in a grand, historic arsenal building from the 17th century, its exterior is classic Swiss baroque, while inside you're greeted by vast, timber-beamed halls that were literally built to store an entire canton's military equipment.
Contact & Location
Address: Zeughausplatz, Werkhof, Solothurn, Bezirk Solothurn, Amtei Solothurn-Lebern, Solothurn, 4509, Schweiz/Suisse/Svizzera/Svizra
Phone: +41 32 627 60 70
Website: Visit Website
