Middle Ages Archive - Swiss National Museum

29. August 2018

Born 800 years ago: Rudolf of Habsburg

Rudolf of Habsburg is one of the most successful figures this country has ever produced. The later king of the Holy Roman Empire laid the groundwork for Habsburg Austria.

15. October 2017

Material and magic – “Zwingli’s helmet” on a journey through time

The iron helmet in the collection at the Swiss National Museum is said to have once protected the head of Ulrich Zwingli (1484–1531) as he lay dying. Though there is no evidence of the actual origin of this Catholic trophy.

13. October 2017

Middle Ages | Society

de en fr

Before Jass

Swiss-German playing cards with the suits Schellen (Bells), Schilten (Shields), Eicheln (Acorns) and Rosen (Roses) have been around for more than half a millennium. Though they have only been used for the game Jass for the last 200 years or so.

26. August 2017

Middle Ages | Religion

de en fr

A window on a supernatural helper

On 26 August 1833 Basel was divided into two semi-cantons. In the course of this division the Basel Minster treasury was also divided. With far-reaching consequences …