Symmetric three-layer $Al_2O_3/ZrO_2$ composite has been prepared by freeze casting and pressureless sintering at $1400-1600^{circ}C$ in air. The layered material sintered at $1600^{circ}C$ showed the maximum fracture strength (410 MPa), measured by a four-point bending test. Contact damage strength was superior in three-layer composite compared with corresponding mono-layered material, possibly due to the development of relatively large compressive stress. The grain growth of $ZrO_2$ particles was mainly governed by coalescence mechanism.