Karl Bickel personally carried the construction materials up the mountain trail before a proper road existed.
The monument was constructed entirely during the interwar and World War II periods as a counter-movement to global conflict.
The mosaics are composed of thousands of individual glass and stone tesserae applied directly to the concrete structure.
The site remains privately owned and maintained by the Karl and Mathilde Bickel Foundation.
Paxmal is derived from the Latin words 'pax' (peace) and 'mal' (the place of/monument).
Paxmal is a monument to peace constructed by artist Karl Bickel between 1924 and 1949, situated on the Schrina plateau overlooking Lake Walen in Switzerland. The structure features a large, open-air stone rotunda with mosaic wall panels depicting the evolution of humanity and the quest for inner peace. It was built on the site of a former alp meadow where Bickel spent his summers. The monument is categorized as an artistic sanctuary designed for meditation rather than a traditional museum or chapel. The site is maintained by a foundation that oversees the preservation of its murals and architectural integrity. It serves as a vantage point offering views of the Churfirsten mountain range and the valley floor 800 meters below.
The interior of the rotunda looking outward toward the central arch framing the Lake Walen landscape.
Bring a windbreaker or warm layer, as the exposed plateau can be significantly cooler than the lake level.
Carry water and snacks, as there are no commercial vendors or food service facilities on-site.
Ensure your footwear has good traction for the gravel paths surrounding the monument.
Do not attempt to drive up if the road is closed due to snow or ice, as it is a steep, narrow mountain pass; do not climb on the stone architectural elements.
Closed during winter months due to accessibility and weather; typically accessible from late spring through late autumn.
Maintain a quiet volume to respect the contemplative nature of the site; refrain from touching the delicate mosaic surfaces.
