Zurich, a vibrant city and financial center of Switzerland, has a fascinating hidden side for urban exploration, or urbex , enthusiasts. Around this metropolis, there are abandoned places, full of history and mysterious atmosphere. Here is a selection of the five must-see urbex sites to discover around Zurich.
1: The Old Spinning Mill of Wetzikon
Located about thirty kilometers from Zurich, the Ancienne Filature de Wetzikon is an impressive vestige 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, disused offices.
- State of Disrepair: Advanced, with partially collapsed areas.
- Access: Moderate, some parts are difficult to access.
2: The Abandoned Davos Sanatorium
Although located two hours drive from Zurich, the Davos Sanatorium is worth a visit 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 disturbing.
Site Features
- Infrastructure: Patient rooms, treatment rooms, endless corridors.
- State of Disrepair: Moderate, but wear and tear is felt.
- Access: Difficult, due to its isolated location.
3: The Abandoned Factory of Dietikon
Just a few kilometres from Zurich, the Abandoned Factory in Dietikon is a classic urbex site. Once a thriving production centre, the factory now lies abandoned, with dilapidated buildings and machines frozen in time. The site is partially covered in vegetation, which further accentuates its post-apocalyptic atmosphere.
Site Features
- Infrastructure: Halls, warehouses, administrative offices.
- State of Disrepair: Advanced, with parts in ruins.
- Access: Relatively easy, although some areas are off-limits.
4: The Abandoned Military Fort of Regensberg
The Abandoned Military Fort of Regensberg , located about twenty kilometers from Zurich, is an ideal urbex site for those interested in military history. This fort, once used for the defense of the region, is now invaded by nature. The bunkers, firing positions, and underground tunnels offer a unique experience for explorers.
Site Features
- Infrastructure: Bunkers, tunnels, firing positions.
- State of Disrepair: Moderate, with some structures still in good condition.
- Access: Difficult, with partially secured areas.
5: The Abandoned Sihlbrugg Station
Another must-see for urban explorers is the Abandoned Sihlbrugg Train Station , located near Zurich. Once an important railway junction, this station is now out of service, leaving behind deserted platforms, rusting carriages and crumbling buildings. The atmosphere of this station, frozen in time, is both nostalgic and intriguing.
Site Features
- Infrastructure: Platforms, station buildings, abandoned wagons.
- State of Disrepair: Advanced, with decaying structures.
- Access: Easy, although some parts are difficult to access.
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, taking care not to damage this forgotten heritage.
