There are a number of free attractions to experience in Zurich, many of which offer a valuable insight into the city’s history and culture. Although visiting a cemetery might not rank high on most travellers’ must-see lists, they provide unique opportunities to learn about the people that once lived in a city or town. Zurich’s Friedhof Fluntern, or the Fluntern Cemetery, is located in the Zurichberg district of the city. It provides a peaceful place to explore and contemplate the history of Zurich and the lives of its famous and not-so-famous residents.

Fluntern Cemetery is the final resting place of several notable scientists, political leaders, actors, writers and others. It is here that you will find the final resting place of James Joyce, a world renowned novelist and poet from Ireland. The talented writer lived and worked in Zurich before he passed away in 1941. He is best known for penning Ulysses, which was published in 1922. Joyce’s wife Nora Barnacle is also buried at Fluntern Cemetery. Celebrated author Johanna Spiri, best known for writing Heidi, is also buried at the cemetery. Other notable interments included Nobel Prize winners Leopold Ružička and Elias Canetti, as is Swiss composer Friedrich Hegar and scientist Emil Abderhalden.

The cemetery is less than a fifteen minute tram ride from the Comfort Hotel in Zurich Switzerland. The Number 6 tram links the hotel from the Haldenegg stop to the Zurich Zoo stop. Friendhof Cemetery is also close the historic Zurich Zoo and the FIFA Headquarters, a stunning architectural gem east of the city centre.