Caux Palace Heritage
The Caux Palace: A Treasure of Swiss Heritage
Your support is vital in preserving the Caux Palace’s rich legacy!
The Caux Palace - a breathtaking example of Belle Époque architecture and a historic centre for dialogue, trustbuilding and peacebuilding- needs your support.
Discover the rich history of this exceptional site.
Built in 1902 by visionary developer Ami Chessex and renowned local architect, Eugène Jost, this iconic Swiss landmark, perched high above Montreux with breathtaking views of the Alps and the Leman, represents more than just architectural splendour.
But now, the very foundations of this historic site are at risk.
A Critical Restoration Project
The 120-year-old retaining wall, a vital structure supporting the entire Caux Palace site, requires major restoration work to address the gradual deterioration that can jeopardise its stability.
Stretching over 400 meters with 40 arches and covering nearly 5,000 square meters, this impressive wall was built to stabilize the palace on a steep slope. Decades of wear have caused visible cracks and damage that, if left unaddressed, could threaten the stability of the Caux Palace and the mission it serves.
This once-in-a-century renovation project is estimated to cost 3 million Swiss francs.
As a modest foundation, we cannot do it alone - we need your help to preserve this jewel of Swiss heritage and to ensure its legacy endures for future generations.
Read on to find out more or donate now.
Challenges of the Restoration
Restoring this historic wall is no ordinary task.
The site’s steep topography, proximity to a railroad, and the need to keep the Caux Palace operational during the works all pose significant logistical challenges.
But with your support, we can overcome these hurdles and ensure the retaining wall—and everything it supports—stands strong for the next 100 years.
Why This Wall Matters
This retaining wall is more than just a structure; it is the physical foundation for a mission that has touched lives worldwide.
For nearly 80 years, the Caux Palace has welcomed tens of thousands of individuals from diverse backgrounds to foster dialogue, build trust, and inspire action.
From post-war dialogues between French and German delegations to peacebuilding efforts in Lebanon, Cambodia, or South Africa, the Caux Palace has served as a safe and privileged space, connecting individuals, groups, and organizations, and equipping them to promote trust, ethical leadership, sustainable living, and human security in innovative and impactful ways .
Safeguarding the wall is about more than protecting a building—it’s about securing the future of this vital mission.
Ignacio Packer, Executive Director Caux Initiatives of Change Foundation
Join Us in Building the Future
Your contribution can make a lasting impact!.
- Every donation, big or small, helps us secure the future of the Caux Palace.
- For donations of 100 CHF or more:
- You will be invited to visit the site and view the restoration works in progress.
- With your agreement, your name will be added to a fundraising plaque.
- A tax receipt can be provided for Swiss residents depending on local canton regulations.
Take Action Today
Together, let’s ensure that the Caux Palace continues to inspire, equip and connect changemakers for generations to come for a more peaceful, just, and sustainable world.
Share this appeal with your friends and family to spread the word and amplify the impact. Thank you for your support!
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