Rathaus Rapperswil, Medieval town hall at Hauptplatz, Rapperswil-Jona, Switzerland.
Rathaus Rapperswil is a solid stone building with late Gothic features and a distinctive southern tower standing on the main square. It houses a restaurant and café along with the city archives, stained glass collections, silverware, and paintings on display.
The building was constructed around 1470, replacing an earlier fortified tower from the 13th century that stood on the same site. The distinctive southern tower was added in 1614 and has defined the square's appearance ever since.
The interior council chamber and Renaissance cast-iron stove show how the city was governed in earlier times, and visitors can feel the weight of centuries of civic decisions. These rooms reveal the building's role as the heart of community life.
The square is easily accessible on foot and well connected to the old town, making it easy to visit during a walking tour. Staff on site can provide information about access to the interiors and special exhibitions.
On Shrove Tuesday, this building becomes the hub of the Eis-zwei-Geissebei carnival, a local celebration with roots deep in Rapperswil's traditions. This creates a unique festive atmosphere that transforms the entire square.
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