Silent contemplation pervades Friedhof Eichbühl. This isn’t just any cemetery. It’s Zurich’s second largest a sprawling green space in Altstetten. Opened in 1968 Friedhof Eichbühl is a masterpiece of modern Swiss landscape architecture. Designed by Fred Eicher it seamlessly blends nature and urban planning.
Eicher’s vision was bold. He wanted to integrate the natural slopes of the Uetliberg into the design. Imagine gently rolling hills punctuated by pathways. The result is a breathtaking expanse. It’s far larger than any other cemetery in Switzerland.
The rectangular layout is dictated by the landscape. A monumental gateway leads into the heart of the cemetery. Two main axes stretch through the grounds. One path climbs towards the chapel. The other follows a concrete ramp. This leads to a pavilion resembling Le Corbusier’s designs. This serves as a shelter and features a fountain basin.
The chapel sits atop a hill. Its austere concrete walls and glass front reflect the style of the 1960s. The interior is calming. It features reddish-brown tropical wood and brown tiles. It was designed by the architects Hans and Annemarie Hubacher. They also created other notable buildings in Zurich.
But Friedhof Eichbühl isn’t just about its striking architecture. It’s also a place of thoughtful planning. It even has land reserves for emergency burials. These are located on either side of the path to the chapel.
The cemetery is a testament to thoughtful planning. It’s a place where art and nature converge. In 2015 it hosted the AAA Art Altstetten Albisrieden exhibition. Artists like Wolfgang Laib and Ana Roldán contributed works. Roldán’s golden sphere remains on the pavilion roof. A playful comment on the passage of time.
Today Friedhof Eichbühl is a place of peace and reflection. A tranquil escape within the bustling city of Zurich. This tranquil space showcases the remarkable blend of nature. It also provides a lasting tribute to the lives it commemorates.