Zurich 1976-2026

In March 1976, the Architectural History Archive and the Zurich City Archive opened their doors to the public at the Haus zum Rech. For the first time, the two institutions were housed under one roof, in the carefully restored building at Neumarkt 4.

The historic location—with a history dating back to the Middle Ages—should not obscure the fact that the two archives were, and remain, dedicated to documenting the present. Since 1976, several photographers at the Architectural History Archive have been documenting the city’s architectural changes. At the City Archives, staff collect printed materials, press articles, and leaflets on topics that have shaped the city. These photographs and documents form the foundation of the exhibition “Zurich 1976–2026.”

Discover places, events, and episodes from five decades of the city’s history; relive memories; or marvel at the unknown and what has already been forgotten. Explore the archives’ collections at the Haus zum Rech as sources for your own research and as a diverse repository of information and illustrations on contemporary topics and debates. A diverse program of accompanying events invites you to explore the built city through guided tours and other activities.