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History of ETH Zurich: Leading the way since 1855

Ever since it was first founded, ETH Zurich has been a driving force behind Swiss industry, whose innovative products and services are in demand worldwide.

High performers of the future: students of the Federal Polytechnic School at around 1870.
High performers of the future: students of the Federal Polytechnic School at around 1870.
The building of the ETH dome in 1919/20 was both a reflection of the past and an indication of growing self-confidence.
The building of the ETH dome in 1919/20 was both a reflection of the past and an indication of growing self-confidence.

A brief overview of more than 150 years of ETH Zurich history

Ever since it was founded under the name “Polytechnikum” back in 1855, ETH Zurich has been a national educational institution of international standing, attracting talent from all over the world.

The successful combination of cosmopolitanism and strong connections at national level transformed the fledgling educational institution into one of the driving forces behind Swiss industrialisation: it has brought the necessary expertise into the country, trained experts and helped develop future-oriented national infrastructures.

Further information in a brief overview

Find out more

The ETH Zurich's main building in the 19th century
Epochs in the history of ETH Zurich
Enlarged view: Machine laboratory
Scientific milestones

History of Women at ETH Zurich

Image of first female student at ETH

History of Women at ETH

Nobel Prize Laureates

To date, 22 Nobel Prizes have been awarded to researchers who have or have had an association with ETH Zurich.

Nobel Prize Laureates associated with ETH Zurich

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Contact

  • +41 44 632 07 04
  • archiv@library.ethz.ch

ETH Zurich

ETH Library
ETH Zurich University Archives
Rämistrasse 101
8092 Zurich
Schweiz