© LT/Laurent KACZOR
© LT/Laurent KACZOR

Bel-Air Tower and Salle Métropole

Where?
Place Bel-Air
Built in 1932 by Alphonse Laverrière, Bel-Air Tower was based on the American model (with a metal framework covered in stone). Standing at a height of 55 metres, this was one of Switzerland’s first “skyscrapers”.
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Address

Place Bel-Air
1003 Lausanne

How to get there

Palud square

HeritageShopping
In the centre of the square is the town’s oldest fountain, adorned with a statue representing justice. Close by, a clock presents the history of Vaud in animated scenes every hour from 9:00 to 19:00. On Wednesday and Saturday mornings this is the site of the country market, which also sets up shop in the neighbouring pedestrian streets. Every first Friday of the month, it plays host to a craft market. Typical cafes, boutiques and large, elegant shops complement what this high-class district, which is completely pedestrianised, has to offer.
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Plateforme 10

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Located in the heart of Lausanne, a short walk from the SBB station, PLATEFORME 10 is a cultural site unique in Switzerland, bringing together three major cantonal museums: the Cantonal Museum of Fine Arts (MCBA), the Cantonal Museum of Design and Contemporary Applied Arts (mudac) and the Cantonal Museum of Photography (Photo Elysée). A must for art lovers and culture buffs alike.

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Alexandre, the souvenir maker
The Lausanner recommends
Alexandre the souvenir maker
How not to notice the building that takes centre stage in the heart of the city? I can’t stop myself from taking all manner of pictures and from all possible points of view! It’s even more interesting when you know it’s Switzerland’s first skyscraper! With its air of New York and unusual shape, there are many ways of showcasing it.
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Michaël, the urban spirit
The Lausanner recommends
Michaël the urban spirit
Taking inspiration from the architectural model of American skyscrapers, the Bel-Air Tower is Switzerland’s such building. An unmissable symbol of the city, it can be spotted from afar. Just next to it is the Flon, a lively and trendy district that has successfully reinvented itself as the years have gone by to become one of the most popular areas for inhabitants and visitors alike, where architecture, art and design mix.

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At the time, many Lausanne residents were opposed to its construction, claiming that its size would compete with that of their beloved Cathedral. The Salle Métropole situated at the foot of the tower has welcomed numerous stars since the 1930s, including dancer Joséphine Baker and trumpeter Louis Armstrong. Many shows are still held there throughout the year.

In the area

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Palud square
Palud square
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Plateforme 10
Plateforme 10