Who is responsible for maintaining the quality of the place?

Landsgemeindeplatz is the main public square in the town of Zug. It and its surroundings were reconfigured in 1988 according to plans by Zug-based architect Peter Kamm. His project aimed to restore the square to a condition closer to its original state and to free it from traffic. The paved square, surrounded on three sides by buildings, slopes gently downwards towards the water, where it joins the lakeside promenade.

Does the place have low traffic?

Both the upper and lower areas of Landsgemeindeplatz are reserved for slow-moving traffic. There are no parking spaces, as these would impair the square’s function as a meeting place. Nevertheless, the place is easily accessible on foot, by public transport, by car and even by boat. With their many cafés, restaurants and benches, the square and waterfront promenade are an attractive place to stroll.

Is the place maintained and sustainably developed?

Landsgemeindeplatz is part of Zug’s historic old town. The buildings that surround it at its upper section date from various centuries. One house is adorned with the year 1395 on its façade, making it one of the oldest surviving buildings in this place. The lower section of the square abuts the lakeshore, which is lined by an allée. The entire area is surfaced with paving stones and the trees are surrounded by gravel.

Is the place economically viable in the long view?

The square and the adjacent buildings are used for a variety of purposes. The upper section has a hotel and various restaurants. In the lower section at the lake, you can rental a pedalo or stand-up paddleboard during the warmer months. Saturdays feature a weekly market with fresh vegetables, seasonal fruits and cheese and flowers from the region. Another special attraction is the “Chriesimärt” – the cherry market. Zug is famous for its cherries, and the market beckons for a few weeks each summer.

Does the place bring different people together?

For centuries, the citizens of Zug have made majority decisions on politics here when they hold the Landsgemeinde, or cantonal assembly. Today the square is a popular meeting place and open to the public at all times. You can linger here without having to consume anything. The lower section boasts a chess set, benches, an aviary and even a seating area designed like a small amphitheatre by Japanese artist Tadashi Kawamata. In addition, the square hosts events such as concerts and film screenings.

Was the place thoroughly analysed prior to the intervention?

The competition in the 1980s set out three goals: first, Landsgemeindeplatz should once again become a place of active urban life. Second, the needed prerequisites in terms of design and technology must be established so the space can be used in as many different ways as possible. And third, it should also be a place of dignity and festivity in reflection of its historical significance and its location in the old town. Since then, the place has retained its appearance, with small additions such as the seating by Tadashi Kawamata and modifications to the lighting.

Does the place foster attachment to place?

The town of Zug owes its existence to the lake. Pile dwellers settled along the lake, and later the medieval town that still exists today was built, making Zug an important transhipment point for waterborne transport bound for the Gotthard Pass. Beginning in the 15th century and continuing until 1847, the Zuger Landsgemeinde, the canton’s annual public assembly, was also convened at the lake. Since the Middle Ages, the Landsgemeindeplatz has been integrated into both the old town and the lakeside ensemble with the harbour. Its wonderful location and multifunctional use make it a popular place – especially in the warmer months.

Do people perceive the place as beautiful?

A charming aspect of Landsgemeindeplatz is that it slopes gently into the lake and is lined with a variety of boulevard cafés. The lake view and the panoramic view are impressive, so it is not surprising that both residents and tourists like to linger here. With its many trees, the shoreline around Landsgemeindeplatz has a park-like character. Here you can also enjoy wonderful sunsets.