Ganymede

Ganymede is a bronze sculpture at Bürkliplatz in Zurich showing the mythological character stretching his right arm toward the sky. The figure faces a seated eagle representing Zeus, and together they form a composition set in the landscape near the lake.

The sculpture was commissioned in 1942 and installed on the terrace in 1952. It marked a turning point in how mythology was presented publicly in Switzerland during the post-war period.

The sculpture shows Ganymede actively reaching toward the sky rather than being passively taken by the eagle. This representation became meaningful when displayed publicly, reflecting evolving perspectives on how male figures could be shown in art and their role in mythological stories.

The sculpture sits in an open lakeside setting that is easy to reach from different parts of the city. Visitors should expect exposure to sun and wind at this location, so bringing sun protection is sensible, and the area is accessible for wheelchairs.

Sculptor Hermann Hubacher created Ganymede as an active character reaching for the sky rather than being passively lifted by the eagle. This choice reflected his own interpretation of how the ancient myth could be expressed in modern sculpture.