Matterhorn summit platform
The 3,883 m-high Klein Matterhorn summit in Switzerland’s Valais region is to be redesigned. Zermatt mountain railways launched a competition. The boldest proposal by controversial Swiss artist Heinz Julen won. An innovative Swiss symbol is to be created. It is a daring, highly controversial project. Some have even called it “crazy.”
Panoramic views of the ski area
The Klein Matterhorn summit is known for its breathtaking panoramic views of the ski area. The world’s highest cable-car-accessible viewing platform offers views of more than 38 glaciers with peaks over 4,000 metres. Julen’s opponents want to preserve the summit’s original magic. Both sides probably have a point, but one plan will prevail.
Matterhorn summit platform
Date: 30/09/2026
A man-made 4,000-metre summit
It is set to become the first artificial 4,000-metre summit built by humans. More than 70 million euros are budgeted for the project’s construction. Access to the 117-metre-high structure would be via pressurised cabins, because of the low air pressure at an altitude of 4,000 metres. A hotel—or, more precisely, accommodation—is planned for the summit in the shape of a pyramid. It will have room for 50 people to experience the magical event almost as if they were in space. Guests would be carried to the pyramid on the northeastern side in glass lifts. Investors are still being sought.
Mountaineers’ accommodation planned
Zermatt mountain railways are initially planning to build a restaurant in autumn 2007. Accommodation for mountaineers is also to be built on the summit. An application has been submitted for this, with construction costs exceeding 5.5 million euros. The application for the pyramid is planned for the spring. The approval process is expected to take 2 to 3 years. In about 7 years, this spectacular platform could be built for the world to see. In any case, it is technically feasible.
