Cabaret Voltaire

Located at Spiegelgasse 1 in Zurich’s Old Town, the Cabaret Voltaire stands as a pivotal cultural landmark and the historic birthplace of the Dada movement. Founded in 1916 by Hugo Ball and Emmy Hennings, this venue originally served as a radical hub for avant-garde performances, poetry, and artistic expression that challenged societal norms. Today, it operates as a dynamic cultural space under the direction of Salome Hall, continuing its legacy of fostering creative dialogue.

Visitors enter a welcoming bar and gathering area on the first floor, where they can order drinks and sit at tables while absorbing the atmosphere. The space functions simultaneously as a museum and art gallery, featuring exhibits such as paintings inspired by the venue’s rich history. In the vaulted cellar and historical hall, the Cabaret Voltaire hosts temporary exhibitions and maintains a dedicated Dada library, offering deep insights into the movement’s impact on modern art and literature.

For practical planning, the venue operates with specific hours: it is open from 13:30 to 18:00 on Sundays, Fridays, and Saturdays, and from 17:00 to 20:00 on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays. It also opens in the evenings for special events. Admission is free, and visitors holding the Zürich Card enjoy free entry along with access to public transport and discounts at over 50 other local venues. Whether you are an art enthusiast or a curious traveler, the Cabaret Voltaire offers a unique window into Zurich’s revolutionary past. You can reach the venue by phone at +41 (0)43 268 57 20 for further inquiries. This site remains a vital connection to the early 20th-century artistic revolution that reshaped global culture.