Sculpted Keystone "Winter"

The second Lucerne railway station was opened in 1896, built according to the plans of Hans Wilhelm Auer. Its striking dome, over 40 meters high, created a counterpoint to the hotels on the opposite side of the lake and was highly controversial. This was because domes were traditionally considered the "most distinguished architectural motif" reserved for places of worship, and now the station was seen as a competitor.

The present keystone from the sculpture workshop of Josef Vetter symbolizes this debate and the sentiment of the time. The characterful head, with its pronounced beard and ornate hair, is a popular motif that represents winter. It is often depicted in connection with the four seasons or even the twelve months. Strength and determination are beautifully expressed, and just as the dome carries a sense of religious grandeur, this head also evokes the image of a saint or an ancient philosopher. One can sense that something monumental is taking place here.

The incredible investments and the profound landscape changes brought about by the first railway lines and stations ushered in a new era and left a deep impression on people. These historical moments and the project's intentions are reflected in the finishing stones.