Here at Rigiplatz, can you feel the echoes of a bygone era? The Rigiplatz got its name in 1898. It is named after the Rigi. The Rigi is a mountain by Lake Lucerne. You can even see it from here on a clear day.
The Rigiquartier surrounds Rigiplatz and Rigistrasse. This area emerged in Oberstrass around the time of Zurich’s incorporation in 1893. Most buildings here went up from 1891 to 1896. The land largely came from the former Oberstrass municipality. It was known as “Bürgergemeindeland von Oberstrass”.
Building on Geissberg, where Rigiplatz resides, proved difficult. The soil had a molasses layer covered by clay. This often demanded skill and craftsmanship.
Let’s talk about the Rigiblick funicular. Locals also call it Seilbahn Rigiviertel. This fully automatic railway is part of Zurich’s public transport. The Verkehrsbetriebe Zürich operates it. The Rigiblick funicular links to tram and trolleybus lines. It connects the lower station to Rigiblick on Zürichberg hill. The line opened on April 4, 1901. It underwent refurbishment in the early 1950s. The original wooden cars were replaced with metal ones in red. Another update in the late 1970s extended the line. Blue and white cars were introduced.
The line spans 385 meters. It climbs 94 meters. The maximum incline is 36%. Two cars each hold 30 passengers. The ride takes about two minutes. It runs frequently.
Close to Rigiplatz, you can find the Theater Rigiblick. This theatre is located at Germaniastrasse 99. It opened in 1901 as a restaurant with a large hall. The Zürcher Frauenverein bought the building complex in 1914. In 2002, they repurchased the building. The hall remained under city government ownership. It is now a venue for guest performances. The focus is on dance theatre. The theatre seats 160 people. It hosts about 250 events annually. The Theater Rigiblick is listed as a cultural property of regional significance.
Rigiplatz and its surroundings offer a glimpse into Zurich’s past. From scenic views to transport history to cultural venues, Rigiplatz remains a vibrant part of Zurich.