Zwingli and the Reformation in Switzerland

19 January 2022

Ulrich Zwingli (1484-1531) preached his religious ideas from the pulpit of the Grossmünster in Zurich 500 years ago. The Reformation profoundly influenced the city, the canton of Zurich, the (ancient) Confederation and Europe.

The break with Catholic tradition occurred in 1522 when a sausage meal was consumed in violation of the fasting commandment. Zwingli’s remarks aroused the anger of Pope Hadrianus VI, who demanded that Zwingli be punished.

However, Zurich’s City Council (der Grosse Rat) discussed his ideas instead. Contrary to the Pope’s instructions, the city adopted Zwingli’s position and introduced his reforms. Hence, Zurich is a protestant city.

(Source and further information:www.musee-reforme.ch; www.zref500.ch; www.zwingli.ch).