Paradeplatz

Paradeplatz is a public square on Bahnhofstrasse in central Zurich, where banking, shopping, and tram routes meet. UBS and Credit Suisse maintain headquarters around the square. Historic buildings frame the space, including the former Kreditanstalt building from 1873 and the UBS building from 1897 to 1899. The Mandarin Oriental Savoy occupies the eastern side. The hotel began as Baur en Ville in 1838, while Confiserie Sprüngli has served Swiss sweets from the southern block since 1859. Luxemburgerli are a signature treat there. The car-free square carries trams and pedestrians, and its stop forms a major junction in Zurich’s tram network. The site once stood outside medieval walls. New fortifications brought it into the town in 1642, after the area had served as a livestock market called Säumärt. The name Paradeplatz dates from the year 1865. The Züriputsch brought clashes between insurgents and cantonal troops to the square in 1839. Peterhof stands near its northeastern edge. From Paradeplatz, Bahnhofstrasse, Zurich’s old town, and Lake Zurich lie close at hand for visitors exploring the city. Luxury shops line the surrounding city blocks.