Mattelift, Public elevator at Münster platform, Switzerland
Mattelift is a public elevator that connects the upper Münster platform with the lower Matte district, spanning a vertical distance of about 31 meters. A conductor operates the lift and assists passengers during their journey between the two levels.
The lift began operating in 1897 as a practical solution for residents traveling between the cathedral zone and the craft district below. It solved the challenge of moving between two neighborhoods separated by a significant height difference.
The lift carries the name of the Matte river that flows below and connects two distinct neighborhoods with different characters. Daily, people from the cathedral quarter and the craft-oriented lower district use this vertical passage to move between their worlds.
The lift is easily reached from the Münster area on foot and carries passengers steadily between the two districts. It offers a convenient option for those who prefer not to walk down stairs or who want to avoid rough weather while changing levels.
A distinctive feature is that lift conductors manually operate the elevator, a role that for many decades was held only by men. In 2020, the first woman was hired to fill this traditionally male position.
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