Reg.Nr. CH/261-1980

New pedestrian zone in the historic town centre of Solothurn

The old quarter of Solothurn is the traditional centre for trade and culture for the whole region. It had long been the wish of the authorities and the public to make this area more attractive and accessible to pedestrians. The first area to be completely free from motor traffic ...
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Project details

Title:New pedestrian zone in the historic town centre of Solothurn
Entr. year: 1980
Result:Diploma
Country: Switzerland
Town: Solothurn
Category type: cultural landscape
Building type/ Project type: Urban renewal/design - Village renewal/design
Former use:Inner urban area with motorised traffic
Actual use:Pedestrian zone in historic urban core with an appropriate infrastructure and a resident population
The Jury's citation: "Für die Einrichtung einer attraktiven Fussgängerzone in der alten Stadt"
GPS:47° 12'27.7"N 7°32'12.4"E

Description:
The old quarter of Solothurn is the traditional centre for trade and culture for the whole region. It had long been the wish of the authorities and the public to make this area more attractive and accessible to pedestrians. The first area to be completely free from motor traffic was the Market Square. This area was reorganized and cafes acquired more space to spill onto the pavements. Lighting in form of "electrical gas lamps" was introduced to harmonize with the old character of the town. The pedestrian zone was gradually extended to include neighbouring side streets, so that eventually the aim of a pedestrian zone stretching from gate to gate was realized.