Lausanne, the capital city of the Swiss canton of Vaud, is a popular destination for travelers seeking a blend of culture, history and natural beauty. Among its many attractions is La Grande Fresque – an expansive mural that offers visitors a glimpse into the rich tapestry of Lausanne’s past.
A Brief Introduction to La Grande Fresque
Nestled in the heart of Lausanne’s old town district – Place de la Palud, stands one remarkable piece of art known as ‘La Grande Fresque’. This large-scale mural adorns the façade of a building and spans four stories high. It was painted by artists Alexandre Loye and Aloys Perregaux between 1997 and 1998 under commission from the City Council to commemorate historical events significant to this charming town.
The Artistic Significance
La Grande Fresque is not just an ordinary wall painting; it’s more akin to an open book narrating tales from different eras. The painting uses trompe-l’oeil technique – an art style that creates optical illusions making flat paintings appear three-dimensional. The result is a stunningly realistic depiction capturing centuries-old stories filled with characters who played pivotal roles in shaping Lausanne’s history.
Historical Scenes Depicted on La Grande Fresque
The fresco depicts various scenes from distinct epochs showcasing important milestones in local history. On close observation, you can identify key figures such as Major Davel leading his rebellion against Bernese rule in 1723 or Bishop Saint-François de Sales preaching during his visit to Lausanne in 1594.
Besides these historic personalities, there are also portrayals reflecting everyday life across different periods: market traders selling their wares during medieval times; children playing traditional games; craftsmen working diligently in their workshops, and even the city’s first tram dating back to 1896.
La Fontaine de la Justice
In front of La Grande Fresque stands another significant landmark – ‘La Fontaine de la Justice’ or Fountain of Justice. This iconic fountain has been a part of Place de la Palud since 1585 and it is depicted as a central element in the mural. The statue atop the fountain represents justice with scales in one hand, symbolizing equality before law. It adds an extra layer of historical context to this picturesque square.
A Guided Tour: Enhancing Your Experience
To fully appreciate La Grande Fresque’s intricate details and understand its historic relevance, consider taking a guided tour offered by Lausanne Tourism. These tours are led by knowledgeable guides who provide fascinating insights into each scene portrayed on the fresco along with anecdotes about life during those times.
Visiting La Grande Fresque: Practical Information
The best time to view La Grande Fresque is during daylight hours when you can truly appreciate its vibrant colors and detailed imagery. As it is located outdoors at Place de la Palud – one of the most popular squares in old town, there is no admission fee required for viewing this masterpiece making it an ideal stopover for budget travelers exploring Switzerland.
In conclusion, whether you’re a history buff seeking deeper understanding about Swiss heritage or an art enthusiast appreciating large-scale murals, visiting ‘La Grande Fresque’ would undeniably enrich your travel experience in Lausanne.
Frequently asked questions
What is La grande fresque in Lausanne?
La grande fresque, also known as The Great Mural of Lausanne, is an iconic piece of public art located in the city center of Lausanne, Switzerland. This massive mural covers a large wall and represents various aspects of the city’s history and culture. It showcases different periods from the past to present day with detailed illustrations that bring life to local legends, famous figures, and significant events.
Where exactly can I find La grande fresque in Lausanne?
The grand mural is situated on Avenue de la Gare 1 in downtown Lausanne. Specifically, it adorns the side wall of a building called “La Cité”, which faces towards Place de l’Europe square. Its central location makes it easily accessible for visitors who are exploring the city on foot or using public transportation.
When was this artwork created and who are its creators?
The Great Mural was completed over several months during 2017 by two renowned Swiss artists: Truffer Patrick and Frédéric Rouge. Their collaborative effort has resulted in one of the most impressive murals in Switzerland that encapsulates their unique artistic styles while paying homage to their hometown’s rich heritage.
Can I visit this attraction at any time? Is there an entry fee?
Yes! As an outdoor exhibit displayed on a public building facade, you can view The Great Mural anytime you wish without any restrictions or fees involved. Whether you’re passing by during your daytime sightseeing or taking a relaxing evening stroll around town under ambient street lighting – this remarkable work remains available for admiration round-the-clock.
Why should I visit ‘La grande fresque’? What makes it special among other attractions?
Visiting ‘La grande fresque’ offers a unique opportunity to delve into Lausanne’s vibrant history and culture in an unconventional way. The mural is not just visually stunning, but also serves as an open-air history book that narrates the city’s story through its captivating imagery. Moreover, it stands out due to its sheer size and intricate details which make it one of a kind among other urban art installations. For art enthusiasts or anyone interested in learning more about Lausanne’s past and present – this attraction is definitely worth adding to your itinerary.
