Fraumunster, more popularly known as the 'Minister of Our Lady' is an impressive church dominating the Zurich skyline. It features as one of the renowned sacred tourist destination in Zurich. Every year thousands of tourists flock to this church.
Going by the history of Fraumunster, King Louis of Germany was the founder of this church. Initially, the church was in the form of an Abbey founded by King Louis. A lot of improvement has been incorporated into the original structure. It is hard to believe that the cobbled square outside the church was once the site of a pig market. During the 11th century the abbesses gained considerable rights and the convent was the home to many German noble women until the 13th century. The convent was closed after reformation. On November 30, 1524 due to the reformation movement, Katharina Von Zimmern donated the church and abbey to the city of Zurich. All the icons and images of the icon were ravaged. The church underwent massive renovation in the 20th century.
The slender blue spire mounted on top of the church is an impressive piece of architecture. Fraumunster Church in Zurich is an ideal blend of Gothic and Romanesque style. A small door below the spire
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serves as an entrance, which leads into the transept. The basilica of Fraumunster Church comprises three aisles, a central area built in a Gothic style and a Romanesque choir built during 1250-70, which stands at a height of 18 meters from the floor.
Main attraction of Fraumunster Church are the 5 stained glass windows, each unique in their own way. The windows were designed by Marc Chagall during its refurbishment in the 1970s. Each of the stained glass windows is 10 meters high and has an individual color theme. 'Prophets Window' on the north is blood red and depicts Elisa watching Elijah mount on the chariot of fire. The window on the opposite side known as the 'Law' window, portrays Moses looking down upon the suffering and disobedient people, who are following the horseman going to the war. 'Jacob' is the extreme left window in blue color. The color theme of the 'Zion' window on the extreme right is yellow. 'Christ' window is centrally positioned and is green in color. The beautiful cloister of Fraumunster is decorated with a series of frescoes.
The colorful and artistic interiors of the Fraumastic church and the simple yet attractive facade appeals and attracts the tourists.
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