Zurich, a dynamic city and financial center of Switzerland, has a fascinating hidden side for urban exploration enthusiasts, or urbex. Around this metropolis, there are abandoned places filled with history and a mysterious atmosphere. Here is a selection of five must-visit urbex sites to discover around Zurich.
1: The Old Wetzikon Spinning Mill
Located about thirty kilometers from Zurich, the Old Wetzikon Spinning Mill is an impressive remnant of the Swiss textile industry. Abandoned for several decades, this factory offers a unique setting for photography and exploration enthusiasts. The vast rooms, rusty machines, and old equipment tell the story of a bygone era.
Site Features
- Infrastructure: Production halls, industrial machines, abandoned offices.
- State of Decay: Advanced, with partially collapsed areas.
- Access: Moderate, with some parts difficult to reach.
2: The Abandoned Davos Sanatorium
Although located two hours’ drive from Zurich, the Davos Sanatorium is worth the trip for any urbex enthusiast. Perched in the mountains, this former medical facility, once intended for tuberculosis patients, is now abandoned. The long empty corridors, deserted rooms, and mountainous surroundings create an atmosphere that is both fascinating and eerie.
Site Features
- Infrastructure: Patient rooms, treatment rooms, endless corridors.
- State of Decay: Moderate, but the wear of time is evident.
- Access: Difficult, due to its isolated location.
3: The Abandoned Dietikon Factory
Just a few kilometers from Zurich, the Abandoned Dietikon Factory is a classic urbex site. Once a thriving production center, this factory is now left abandoned, with its dilapidated buildings and machines frozen in time. The site is partially overgrown with vegetation, which further enhances its post-apocalyptic atmosphere.
Site Features
- Infrastructure: Halls, warehouses, administrative offices.
- State of Decay: Advanced, with some parts in ruins.
- Access: Relatively easy, although some areas are off-limits.
4: The Abandoned Regensberg Military Fort
The Abandoned Regensberg Military Fort, located about twenty kilometers from Zurich, is an ideal urbex site for those interested in military history. This fort, once used to defend the region, is now overrun by nature. The bunkers, firing posts, and underground tunnels offer a unique experience for explorers.
Site Features
- Infrastructure: Bunkers, tunnels, firing posts.
- State of Decay: Moderate, with some structures still in good condition.
- Access: Difficult, with some areas partially secured.
5: The Abandoned Sihlbrugg Train Station
The Abandoned Sihlbrugg Train Station is another must-see spot for urbexers near Zurich. Once an important railway hub, this station is now out of service, leaving behind deserted platforms, rusty train cars, and ruined buildings. The atmosphere of this station, frozen in time, is both nostalgic and intriguing.
Site Features
- Infrastructure: Platforms, station buildings, abandoned train cars.
- State of Decay: Advanced, with structures decomposing.
- Access: Easy, although some parts are difficult to reach.
Conclusion
Around Zurich, several urbex sites offer exciting and varied exploration opportunities. From abandoned factories to military fortresses, each place has its own story to tell. However, it is important to respect these sites during your explorations, making sure not to damage this forgotten heritage.
