Trogen Village Square
Appenzell Ausserrhoden
Trogen Village Square, known locally as Landsgemeindeplatz Trogen, is the historic heart of the village of Trogen in the Swiss canton of Appenzell Ausserrhoden. The square is famous for its ensemble of elegant stone palaces built between 1747 and 1809, known as the Zellweger Palaces, which reflect the wealth of the Zellweger family who prospered through textile trade and linen commerce. Architect Hans Ulrich Grubenmann contributed to the design of several prominent buildings around the square, including the second stone palace and the nearby community house. The square served as the site of the Landsgemeinde, the traditional open-air assembly of the canton, until its abolition in 1997. In recent years, the square underwent a comprehensive renovation, completed in 2021, which revitalized its historic paving and added a new garden in front of the Fünfeckpalast. The square remains a cultural and historical focal point, symbolizing Trogen's role as the former cantonal capital and a center of textile industry prosperity in the 18th and 19th centuries.
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Tip: The best time to visit Trogen Village Square is during the warmer months when the renovated square and garden can be fully appreciated. Visitors should consider exploring the nearby historic buildings and the art-historically significant Reformed Church designed by Hans Ulrich Grubenmann. Although the Landsgemeinde assembly no longer takes place here, local events occasionally animate the square. It is advisable to check local tourism resources for any cultural events. Tickets are generally not required to visit the square, but guided tours of the village and its historic buildings may enhance the experience. Discounts may be available for groups or seniors through local tourist offices.
Interesting facts
- •The Zellweger Palaces around the square are listed as cultural properties of national significance in Switzerland.
- •Hans Ulrich Grubenmann, a notable architect from Teufen, designed several buildings around the square including the second stone palace and the community house.
- •The Landsgemeinde, a traditional open-air assembly, was held here until 1997, making the square a key political site in the canton.
- •The square was comprehensively renovated between 2019 and 2021, including the addition of a new garden in front of the Fünfeckpalast.
History
Trogen was first mentioned in 1168 and became the main town of Appenzell Ausserrhoden after the 1597 split of the Appenzell land.
The village square developed its current form between the 16th and 18th centuries, with the Zellweger family commissioning several grand palaces between 1747 and 1809.
The square was the site of the Landsgemeinde, the cantonal assembly, until 1997.
In the 20th century, Trogen transitioned from a textile industry hub to a more residential and tourist-oriented village.
A major renovation of the square was completed in 2021, preserving its historical significance and updating its public spaces.
Place Guide
Zellweger Palaces1747-1809
A group of representative stone palaces built between 1747 and 1809 by the wealthy Zellweger family, showcasing the prosperity of Trogen's textile trade. These palaces are architectural highlights around the village square and are protected cultural heritage sites.
Fünfeckpalast Garden2021
A newly constructed garden area in front of the Fünfeckpalast, completed in 2021 as part of the square's renovation, providing a green and tranquil space enhancing the historic ambiance of the square.
Community House (Gemeindehaus)18th century
A historic building attributed to architect Hans Ulrich Grubenmann, serving as an important civic building near the village square, reflecting 18th-century architectural style.
Reformed Church of Trogen1779-1782
An art-historically significant church built between 1779 and 1782, designed by Hans Ulrich Grubenmann, located near the village square and notable for its architecture and historical importance.
