Federal Supreme Court Building, Courthouse in Lausanne, Switzerland
The Federal Supreme Court is Switzerland's highest court of law and occupies a dedicated building in Lausanne on Avenue du Tribunal Fédéral. The structure houses the chambers where the nation's most significant legal cases are heard and decided.
Construction of the building took place between the two world wars as part of Switzerland's development of national judicial institutions. The court's establishment in this location marked an important phase in consolidating the country's legal system.
The three main entrances between the Corinthian columns stand for the three national languages recognised when the building was planned: German, French and Italian. The pediment shows Justitia without blindfold or scales, holding a bare sword that stands for the power of the law.
The building is open for visits on certain days, allowing visitors to learn about how Switzerland's judicial system operates. It is helpful to check access availability in advance, as visiting hours can vary depending on court schedules.
The three main entrances between the Corinthian columns of the portico stand for the three national languages recognised when the building was planned: German, French and Italian. Above them, the architrave carries the Latin motto "Lex – Justitia – Pax" (Law – Justice – Peace).
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