Lina Peak skyscraper becomes center of discussion in Zermatt

The Swiss resort town of Zermatt, renowned for its pristine alpine landscape and views of the Matterhorn, has found itself at the center of a heated debate surrounding the ambitious "Lina Peak" project. Local architect Heinz Julen is proposing a 65-story, 260-meter skyscraper in the town, making it the tallest building in Switzerland.

This approach, borrowed from urban design, aims to address the acute housing shortage for seasonal workers and local staff. The "Lina Peak" project is conceived as a multifunctional "vertical village" located on a small plot of agricultural land at the foot of the resort.

The architect, who is also an entrepreneur, argues that Zermatt's housing crisis is serious and requires a solution. The project, estimated to cost approximately half a billion euros, could be completed by 2034, subject to funding.

However, this project has generated significant opposition among some members of the public and defenders of traditional Alpine landscapes, who fear irreversible damage to the aesthetics and visual harmony of the Matterhorn landscape. Local approval is required for the project to move forward, including a public vote on changing the land use from agricultural to construction.

According to analysts, the outcome of this proposal will have a significant impact on future development strategies in protected Alpine resorts.