Launch of the Caux Palace Retaining Wall Restoration Project 

The Caux Initiatives of Change Foundation is proud to announce the launch of the restoration of the Caux Palace retaining wall -  a major heritage project that will unfold over the next three years. 

Recognised as a historic monument of national importance, alongside landmarks such as the Château de Chillon and Lausanne Cathedral, the Caux Palace holds a special place in Switzerland’s architectural heritage. To mark the start of the works, Swiss television RTS featured the project in an episode of its regional news programme Couleurs Locales. 
🎥 Watch the feature here 

Restoring the wall brings together a number of skilled craftsmen and specialist firms, chief among them Medusoil (biocementation), Camandona (masonry), Roth (scaffolding) and Schnetzler (ironwork).

The planning and supervision of the works are entrusted to a team of expert consultants, notably kalk architecture (project management), mawikälin (civil engineering) and Roger Simond (masonry expertise).

First Phases: 2025 

The first steps of the project - phases 0 and 1, running from September to November 2025 - focused on the southern section of the wall.

Where innovation meets tradition 

Two key areas define this phase: 

• Stabilising and reinforcing the foundations with an innovative, eco-friendly biocement solution developed by the award-winning local company Medusoil. This choice embodies our commitment to combining heritage preservation with sustainable practices. 
  🎥 Watch the short video on this solution

• Restoring the historic masonry using early 20th-century techniques and materials to preserve the wall’s authentic appearance. The work is overseen by an engineering consultancy led by Roger Simond, specialists in historical renovation who bring exceptional expertise in traditional mortars and stonework. This initial operation was focused on testing and validating the repair and consolidation methods that will guide the full restoration. 

2026: Phase 2 – Major works begin on the southern section

With the wall stabilised and the restoration methods approved in 2025, the main phase of the project got under way.

Once the building permit came through, work started on restoring the masonry and replacing the most badly worn blocks, beginning with buttress no. 2.

This year's goal has been achieved: the entire southern section of the wall, stretching some 200 metres to the railway gallery, has now been restored. The work included:

• restoring the masonry
• repairing the buttresses and vaults
• replacing badly damaged stone blocks where needed
• fully rebuilding the historic promenade walkway
• restoring and refitting the original 1900 railing
• protecting the trees along the esplanade throughout the works

2027: Phase 3 – Restoration continues

Funding permitting, work will then move on to the northern section of the wall.

Once the whole wall is complete, the promenade lighting will be reinstated. A study is already under way to recreate the historic lamp posts as closely as possible to their original 1902 design, working from a handful of old photographs and postcards.
 

A commitment to sustainability and heritage 

Beyond its structural objectives, this project reflects the Foundation’s mission to safeguard heritage through sustainable action. Environmentally responsible management, efficient use of resources, and respect for traditional craftsmanship are at the heart of this endeavour. 

We extend our heartfelt thanks to the Loterie Romande, Pro Patria, Ernst Göhner Stiftung, Baer SA, IofC Norden, and our individual donors for their generous support in making this first phase possible. 

Help preserve the Caux Palace’s legacy - Your support makes a difference

Every gesture of support - large or small - brings us closer to ensuring this historic landmark can continue to inspire future generations. 

🔗 Find out more about the project and how to get involved 

DONATE NOW