Limmatquai

You’re walking along the Limmatquai, which—as the name suggests—runs alongside the Limmat River. The river actually begins here in Zurich, since it’s the lake that flows into the river, not the other way around. This street, once a major main road, is now mostly reserved for pedestrians and trams. It offers a lovely view of the left bank, where historic buildings and church towers can be seen through the reflection of the river’s clear waters. On your right, the arcades of former guild houses, with their typical Zürcher façades, now hide many storefronts, perfect for strolling, shopping or coffee break. It may be hard to imagine today, but back in the 12th and 13th centuries, houses stood right on the water’s edge, and were only accessible on one side, that is on Oberdorfstrasse and Niederdorfstrasse streets. Over time, the river was pushed back, and the right bank gained nearly 30 meters, creating the promenade you’re enjoying now. The Limmatquai is also where the city’s annual Sechseläuten parade takes place. If you don’t speak German, you probably don’t understand what I just said—it means “the ringing of the bells at six.” It’s Zurich’s spring celebration, held on April 3rd since 1902. The name actually refers to the first time the Fraumünster’s bells rang to mark the end of the workday at 6 PM—the time of sunset during the March equinox. That change marked the shift to summer hours, which meant more daylight after work and a reason to celebrate. To mark the occasion, people would burn Bööggs—which were scary, rag-doll-style scarecrows. This tradition has continued up to this day, though the Böögg now takes the form of a snowman. A symbolic farewell to winter! Popular lore says the time it takes for the snowman’s head to explode after lighting the pyre predicts the summer ahead—a quick boom means a hot, sunny summer, while a slow burn suggests a cold and rainy one.