Place De La Riponne

Place de la Riponne, Lausanne: Essential Visiting Guide, Historical Sites, and Practical Tips

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction

Place de la Riponne is one of Lausanne’s most iconic urban squares, standing at the crossroads of centuries-old history, vibrant community life, and innovative urban design. Situated at the heart of the Swiss city, the square is renowned for its striking architectural landmarks, bustling weekly markets, and dynamic cultural events. In this comprehensive guide, you’ll discover everything you need to know for a memorable visit: from historical highlights and museum hours to accessibility, local tips, and future developments.

Scenic view of Lausanne city with Lake Geneva and mountains in the background

Palais de Rumine in Lausanne, former university building now hosting museums and a library

La Place de la Riponne in Lausanne in the late 19th century before the construction of the Palais de Rumine

Introduction
Historical Evolution: From Medieval Origins to Modern Square
The Grenette Market Hall and Civic Life
The Palais de Rumine: Museums and Visiting Information
20th Century Changes and Urban Redevelopment
Market Days, Hours, and Local Culture
Accessibility and Getting There
Nearby Attractions and Photographic Highlights
Contemporary Art, Events, and Participatory Urbanism
Practical Tips and FAQs
Summary and Final Tips
References

Historical Evolution: From Medieval Origins to Modern Square

Place de la Riponne traces its roots to Lausanne’s medieval past. The square’s name originates from the Ripon family, who owned land near the city’s ancient walls (das-geneve.com). In the early 19th century, the Louve river valley was filled to create a spacious marketplace, replacing the smaller medieval Place de la Palud to accommodate Lausanne’s growing population (notrehistoire.ch). The square’s first market was held in 1840, marking its emergence as a commercial and social hub.

The Grenette Market Hall and Civic Life

Between 1838 and 1840, architect Henri Fraisse designed the Grenette, a grand grain market that anchored Place de la Riponne as a focal point for cattle competitions, public festivals, and political events. The Grenette also served diverse functions—as a gymnasium, polling station, and festival canteen—reflecting the square’s essential role in Lausanne’s civic life (notrehistoire.ch). Its demolition in 1933 made way for further urban transformation, but its legacy endures in the square’s enduring market tradition.

The Palais de Rumine: Museums and Visiting Information

The eastern side of Place de la Riponne is dominated by the Palais de Rumine, a neo-Renaissance masterpiece built between 1892 and 1906. Funded by Gabriel de Rumine and designed by Gaspard André, the palace is a symbol of Lausanne’s cultural ambition. Today, it houses several museums:

Cantonal Museum of Fine Arts
Cantonal Museum of Geology
Cantonal Museum of Archaeology and History
Cantonal Zoological Museum
Cantonal and University Library

Opening Hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 10:00–18:00; closed Mondays
Tickets: Permanent exhibitions are free; temporary exhibitions may require a ticket (palaisderumine.ch). Entry is free for visitors under 26 and on the first Saturday of each month.

The palace’s striking façade and central atrium, flooded with natural light, are architectural highlights not to be missed (switzerlandisyours.com).

20th Century Changes and Urban Redevelopment

Following the demolition of the Grenette, Place de la Riponne underwent significant redevelopment. Modern administrative buildings and an underground parking garage were constructed, reflecting Lausanne’s adaptation to contemporary urban needs (notrehistoire.ch). The square’s layout has continued to evolve, balancing its historical character with new infrastructure and amenities (Wikipedia, lausanne.ch).

Today, Place de la Riponne is largely pedestrianized and accessible, with the city’s commitment to participatory urbanism reflected in ongoing redesigns (watson.ch, 24heures.ch).

Market Days, Hours, and Local Culture

The square is famous for its vibrant markets:

Market Days: Wednesday and Saturday
Hours: 08:00–14:30
Offerings: Fresh produce, cheese, meats, flowers, baked goods, and on Sundays, flea and book markets (touringswitzerland.com, weareglobaltravellers.com, explorial.com)

Seasonal events, such as the Christmas market and open-air cinemas, add to the square’s lively cultural calendar (allevents.in).

Accessibility and Getting There

Public Transport: Riponne-Maurice Béjart metro station (Lines M1 & M2) and several bus lines serve the square (evendo.com).
Parking: Underground parking is available beneath the square.
Wheelchair Accessibility: The square, museums, and most nearby facilities are accessible for visitors with reduced mobility.

Nearby Attractions and Photographic Highlights

Lausanne Cathedral: A short walk uphill, offering panoramic city and lake views (lausanne-tourisme.ch).
Old Town: Explore winding streets, boutique shops, and historic sites like Place de la Palud and Esplanade de Montbenon (thecrazytourist.com).
Collection de l’Art Brut: Celebrated museum of outsider art.
Photographic Spots: The façade of the Palais de Rumine, lively market scenes, the glowing “pince secrète” art installation, and the new green pedestrian zones (das-geneve.com).

Contemporary Art, Events, and Participatory Urbanism

Lausanne is reinventing Place de la Riponne as a model of participatory urbanism and sustainable design (letemps.ch). The “Au soleil, sous la pluie” project, set for completion by 2028, will introduce terraced gardens, water features, shaded play areas, and expanded pedestrian spaces (20min.ch, rts.ch).

Temporary installations, like the giant wooden stage designed by EPFL students and Caroline Bourrit’s participatory fresco, foster community interaction and creative expression (lausanne.ch).

Practical Tips and FAQs

When is the best time to visit?
Market days (Wednesday and Saturday mornings) are ideal for experiencing the square’s lively atmosphere.

Are there entrance fees?
Access to the square and markets is free. Museums in Palais de Rumine offer free entry to permanent exhibits; temporary exhibitions may require a ticket (palaisderumine.ch).

Is Place de la Riponne family-friendly?
Yes. The square features open spaces, seasonal art installations, and is car-free in key areas, making it suitable for families.

Are guided tours available?
Yes. Several companies and the local tourism office offer guided tours and scavenger hunts (explorial.com).

What are the Palais de Rumine’s hours?
Tuesday to Sunday, 10:00–18:00; closed Mondays.

How do I get there by public transport?
Take metro lines M1 or M2 to Riponne-Maurice Béjart station, or use bus lines serving the area.

Summary and Final Tips

Place de la Riponne encapsulates Lausanne’s unique blend of historical depth and contemporary vibrancy. From the imposing Palais de Rumine and bustling weekly markets to innovative art installations and green urban spaces, the square offers something for every visitor. Its ongoing transformation, guided by participatory design and sustainability, ensures that Place de la Riponne will remain a cherished and dynamic heart of the city for generations to come.

Tips for Visitors:

Visit on market mornings for authentic local flavor.
Use public transport for convenience and sustainability.
Explore the museums, Old Town, and nearby cathedral.
Check official websites for up-to-date schedules and events.
Enjoy seasonal festivals and pop-up cultural programming.

For the latest updates, guided tours, and multimedia resources, check the official Lausanne Tourism website, Palais de Rumine, and download the Audiala app for audio guides and real-time tips.