The Nordwestschweiz region, located in the northwest of Switzerland, is known for its varied landscapes and rich historical heritage. Beyond the traditional tourist attractions, this region is home to fascinating abandoned places for urbex (urban exploration) enthusiasts. From industrial remains to disused military buildings, here is a selection of the five most unmissable urbex sites in Nordwestschweiz.
1. The Abandoned Chemical Plant of Birsfelden
Located near Basel, the abandoned chemical plant of Birsfelden is a major urbex site in the region. Closed for several decades, this former industrial facility offers a spectacular setting with its dilapidated buildings and rusty equipment.
Site Features
- Infrastructure: Industrial buildings, tanks, laboratories.
- State of Disrepair: Advanced, with some structures partially collapsed.
- Access: Restricted, requiring discretion during the visit.
2. The Mutzig Military Fort
The Mutzig military fort is an impressive site located in the mountains near the French-Swiss border. Built at the end of the 19th century, this fort was abandoned after the Second World War, leaving behind a complex network of tunnels and bunkers.
Site Features
- Infrastructure: Bunkers, underground tunnels, casemates.
- State of Disrepair: Moderate, but overgrown.
- Access: Difficult, some parts of the fort are inaccessible without equipment.
3. The Abandoned Psychiatric Hospital of Liestal
In Liestal, the former psychiatric hospital is one of the most captivating urbex locations in North-West Switzerland. Closed in the 1980s, this hospital leaves behind an eerie atmosphere with its deserted treatment rooms and long, silent corridors.
Site Features
- Infrastructure: Treatment rooms, bedrooms, gardens.
- State of Disrepair: Moderate, with traces of past occupation.
- Access: Relatively easy, but some parts are supervised.
4. The Abandoned Industrial Site of Rheinfelden
The abandoned industrial site of Rheinfelden is another iconic location for urbex enthusiasts. Once an important production area, this site is now a wasteland, with ruined buildings and rusty machinery.
Site Features
- Infrastructure: Factories, warehouses, industrial equipment.
- State of Disrepair: Advanced, with risks of collapse.
- Access: Difficult, some areas are prohibited.
5. The Abandoned Schwarzsee Sanatorium
Located near Lake Schwarzsee, this former sanatorium is a remarkable urbex location. Built in the early 20th century to treat lung diseases, it was abandoned in the 1970s, leaving behind a majestic but dilapidated building.
Site Features
- Infrastructure: Care buildings, bedrooms, recreation rooms.
- State of Disrepair: Moderate, but overgrown by nature.
- Access: Relatively easy, with some dangerous areas.
Conclusion
Northwestern Switzerland is full of fascinating urbex sites that immerse visitors in unique and often mysterious atmospheres. Whether photographing industrial remains or exploring military fortifications, these places offer an unforgettable experience for urban exploration enthusiasts. However, it is essential to respect these sites and preserve their integrity by avoiding any act of vandalism.
