Switzerland, Winterthur – Visiting Technorama and Hegi Chateau

Locals dubb this town Winti. It is one of the busiest junctions in the country. There are freeways and connection to Zurich airport. Hence, it is easy to get to the city from anywhere in the world.

The settlement of the area dates back to the Roman era. Its modern history starts off in 1180. It saw battles, the Industrial Revolution, economic recession, and world wars. The events made the city the heart of Swiss railroad industry. Banking and insurance also flourished here for one world's largest banks (UBS), and an insurance company which goes by the same as the city. The technology sector is mostly represented by the company producing ecological vehicles, Technikum is the main educational facility, and the Club of Rome, the instution researching international affairs, climate change, world economic growth etc.

Local chamber orchestra and Open Doors international artistic group are the most famous culture products of this city. Yet we were more interested in sights or attractions. Winterthur features many museums, especially the Museum of Arts, Vila Flora, the Museum of Photography, or TECHNORAMA science museum.

And to Technorama did we go. This unique experimental environment let visitors deepen their knowledge on different nature phenomenna. Over 500 exhibits give you the knowledge of physics, nature, and the life itself. Being one of the most important science centers in the world, around 250 thousand visitors enter this museum annualy.  Spielzeugeisenbahn-Sammlung Bommer, a world collection of metal toys is alos a part of the museum. The museum is truly wonderful and informative. You will spend there hours upon hours without ever wanting to leave.

Upon the tour in the science center, stop by at Hegi chateau. It is considered a typical example of late Gothic dominon in the northeastern part of Switzerland. Built in 1225, this cultural sight takes you back to the Middle-Ages. You walk through Gothic chambers, see the insides of the chapel with beautiful stained glass windows, frescoes, and other decoration. A revitalized vegetables garden wraps the chateau. Flower and herb gardens is under contsruction.

Winterthur left us with deep impression. We enjoyed its historic atmosphere, the modern museum, and the chateau. 

GPS: 47°30'48.3"N 8°45'50.0"E

Text: Oskár Mažgút

Photos: Mário Lipovský, Wikipedia:Ikiwaner (Town House), Roland zh (TECHNORAMA)