Landsgemeindeplatz Trogen
Appenzell Ausserrhoden
Landsgemeindeplatz is the central historic square in Trogen, Appenzell Ausserrhoden, Switzerland. It is renowned for its surrounding Zellweger palaces, built between 1747 and 1809 by generations of the wealthy Zellweger family, who prospered from the textile trade. These palatial buildings exhibit elegant architecture and symbolize the town's past wealth and social prominence. The square served as the site for the Landsgemeinde, the traditional cantonal assembly, until its abolition in 1997, highlighting its political importance. The square and the palaces have been preserved as cultural heritage sites of national significance, and after a renovation completed in 2021, the area now features a newly paved plaza and a garden near the Fünfeckpalast. The Landsgemeindeplatz remains a focal point of Trogen's identity, representing its historical role as the administrative center of Appenzell Ausserrhoden and its textile industry legacy.
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Tip: Visit Landsgemeindeplatz during the warmer months to enjoy the renovated open space and gardens. Check local schedules for any cultural events or markets held in the square. Since the site is outdoors and freely accessible, no tickets are required, but guided tours of the town and palaces may enhance the experience. Early arrival can help avoid crowds, especially during local festivals. Consider exploring nearby Trogen attractions and using public transport, such as the Appenzeller Bahnen railway, for convenient access.
Interesting facts
- •The Zellweger palaces around Landsgemeindeplatz are listed as Swiss cultural properties of national significance.
- •The Landsgemeinde, a traditional cantonal assembly, was held here until 1997.
- •The palaces were built competitively by different generations of the Zellweger family to outshine each other.
- •The square was renovated between 2019 and 2021, including a new garden in front of the Fünfeckpalast.
- •Trogen was historically a wealthy textile trade center, largely due to the Zellweger family.
- •The Landsgemeindeplatz has remained architecturally unchanged since 1866 until recent renovations.
History
Trogen was first mentioned in 1168 and became the administrative center of Appenzell Ausserrhoden after the canton split in 1597.
The Landsgemeindeplatz, surrounded by the Zellweger palaces built from the late 17th to early 19th centuries, served as the site of the cantonal assembly until 1997.
The Zellweger family, prominent textile merchants, constructed these palaces to showcase their wealth, leading to some family tensions.
After the last Zellweger business bankruptcy in 1817, the square remained largely unchanged until renovation works from 2019 to 2021 restored its historic character.
Place Guide
Zellweger Palaces1747-1809
A series of grand palatial buildings constructed between 1747 and 1809 by the Zellweger family, showcasing baroque and classical architecture. These palaces reflect the wealth generated from the textile trade and are key cultural landmarks in Trogen.
Landsgemeindeplatz SquareRenovated 2019-2021
The historic town square that hosted the cantonal assembly (Landsgemeinde) until 1997. The square was renovated from 2019 to 2021, preserving its historical layout and adding a garden near the Fünfeckpalast.
Fünfeckpalast Garden2021
A newly constructed garden area in front of the Fünfeckpalast palace, completed as part of the 2019-2021 renovation, offering a peaceful green space within the historic square.
