Paxmal: A Sanctuary of Peace Above Lake Walen

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Discover Paxmal, a Swiss monument to peace with stunning views of Lake Walen and the Churfirsten mountains, perfect for reflection and inspiration.

The Paxmal is a non-religious peace monument created by Swiss artist Karl Bickel between 1924 and 1949. Located in Walenstadtberg, it offers stunning views of the Churfirsten mountain range and serves as a place for reflection and meditation.

A brief summary to Paxmal

Grundweg, Walenstadt, 8881, CH
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From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Paxmal.

Visit during the week to avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience.
Wear comfortable shoes as there may be some walking or hiking involved, depending on your chosen route.
Bring a camera to capture the stunning views of Lake Walen and the Churfirsten mountain range.
Check the weather forecast before you go, as the Paxmal is located at a high altitude and conditions can change quickly.

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Getting There

Public Transport

From Walenstadt train station, take bus 443 to Walenstadtberg, Reha-Klinik bus stop. From there, follow the hiking trail towards Schrina-Hochrugg, then continue to Paxmal. The hike from the bus stop is approximately 4 km uphill. Bus fare is approximately CHF 3-5. Check SBB (Swiss Federal Railways) for train and bus schedules and fares.
Walking

From the Hochrugg parking lot, it's an easy 5-10 minute walk to Paxmal. Follow the signs towards Paxmal. The path is well-maintained and offers scenic views. This is the final approach after either driving to the higher parking areas or hiking up from lower points.
Driving

Drive towards Walenstadtberg. Follow the signs for Paxmal. There are several small parking areas along the route, including one at the top, a 5-10 minute walk from the monument. Parking costs vary, but expect to pay around CHF 5-10 for a few hours at the upper lots. Be aware that parking can be limited during peak season.

Discover more about Paxmal

Perched high above Lake Walen in Switzerland, the Paxmal stands as a testament to peace and contemplation. This unique monument, the creation of Swiss artist Karl Bickel, was built between 1924 and 1949 as a symbol of universal harmony. The Paxmal isn't a place of worship but rather a space for inner reflection and meditation, inviting visitors to connect with art, nature, and their own inner selves.Bickel, who worked as a stamp graphic designer for Swiss Post, dedicated 25 years of his life to constructing the Paxmal in solitude, demonstrating immense self-discipline and enduring material hardship. Inspired by Greek temples, the monument features mosaic murals and marble columns. The left wall of the Paxmal depicts earthly life, representing a human couple in their existence, love, development, and procreation. In contrast, the right wall embodies spiritual life, showcasing the awakening, struggles, and evolution of humankind.The Paxmal is freely accessible from spring to autumn. Visitors can reach it by car, with a short walk from the parking area, or by public transport, combining train and bus travel with a scenic hike. The site offers breathtaking views of Lake Walen and the surrounding mountains, enhancing the serene atmosphere. The Alp Schirna culture trail nearby provides an opportunity for a longer hike, with QR codes offering additional information about the area.