Did you know that Aussersihl, a district in Zurich, is affectionately nicknamed “Chreis Cheib”? This name has its roots in a curious past, a time when Aussersihl was more pastureland than urban sprawl.
Aussersihl, meaning “outside the Sihl,” arose from the fields and meadows that lay beyond the River Sihl. The Sihl, a tributary of the Limmat, flows through the city, defining a boundary between the old city and the newer districts beyond. Long before the towering buildings and bustling streets rose from these fields, Aussersihl was a quiet place, home to a vast open space known as the Sihlfeld, where people would graze their animals.
But, in the 17th century, the Sihlfeld gained a rather macabre reputation. Farmers near the Letzigrund, a large park close to Aussersihl, used this area to bury their dead animals. The practice led to the name “Keibenplatz,” or carcass place, which soon morphed into “Chreis Cheib.” This term, initially implying a rather unfortunate stench, has evolved over time. Today, the residents of Aussersihl have embraced “Chreis Cheib” as a symbol of their district’s past, its working-class roots, and its unique atmosphere.
The name “Chreis Cheib” resonates with the past but also with its current persona. The district remains a vibrant hub of activity, with its vibrant nightlife and diverse cultural offerings. Today, the residents of Aussersihl are a diverse bunch, welcoming an eclectic mix of artists, students, and families. They see “Chreis Cheib” as a badge of honour, a testament to their community’s resilience and its evolving identity.