Rote Fabrik Zurich

The «Red Factory» or «Rote Fabrik», set beautifully by Lake Zurich, stands as an alternative cultural hub contrasting the traditional city center institutions. This renowned cultural center hosts a diverse spectrum of events, merging concerts, art installations, and thought-provoking film and theater screenings on socio-cultural and political topics.

Within its premises lies the «Shedhalle», showcasing contemporary and critical art, alongside the restaurant Brick oh lac. Rote Fabrik was originally a silk weaving mill until 1940, the site faced disuse until the 1970s and 1980s when Zurich’s youth movement advocated for an independent cultural center here. After persistent demonstrations, the «interest group Rote Fabrik» secured the area. This led to legendary concerts by bands like Nirvana and Red Hot Chili Peppers and readings by Günter Grass and Alice Schwarzer. In 1987, the provisional setup became permanent, and the spirit of «Rots» continues to thrive, providing a dynamic cultural experience to this day.