Reformation Wall
Mur des Réformateurs
A roughly 100-meter stone wall beside the University of Geneva, where giant statues of four Reformation leaders, including Calvin, stand side by side to commemorate the Protestant Reformation.
The Reformation Wall (Mur des Réformateurs) lies on the south side of the Old Town, in Parc des Bastions. It was built into the old city walls. Construction began in 1909 to mark the 400th anniversary of Calvin's birth and the 350th anniversary of the University of Geneva, which Calvin had originally founded as an academy. The wall was completed in 1917. At its center stand statues about 5 meters tall of four reformers: Farel, Calvin, Bèze, and the Scotsman John Knox. Flanking them are reliefs of other Protestant figures and key historical events, and the wall bears Geneva's motto, 'Post tenebras lux' (Light after darkness). The park also contains the main building of the University of Geneva and a giant chessboard that locals enjoy, with outdoor café service in summer. Admission is free. It's about a five-minute downhill walk from the Saint-Pierre Cathedral.
Opening hours
Park open all day
Nearby sights
- Maison Tavel
- St. Pierre Cathedral & Old Town
- Old Town & Place du Bourg-de-Four
- Musée d'Art et d'Histoire
- Flower Clock & Jardin Anglais
- Patek Philippe Museum
- Brunswick Monument
- Jet d'Eau