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Wakker Prize 2012

Wakker architectural prize awarded to the Bernese suburb of Köniz.

The Wakker Prize is awarded annually by the Swiss Heritage Society to a municipality for the development and preservation of its architectural heritage.

This year, as in 2011, the focus is on the theme of built-up areas. Köniz, with 38,000 inhabitants Switzerland’s largest suburb, was highlighted for its long-term planning which was developed with input from the local population. The commune came up with original ways of coping with the challenges that come with mobility, overcrowding and maintaining natural spaces. Furthermore, the protected hamlets in Köniz show how traditional types of settlements can be preserved.

(Text: Swiss Heritage Society, Images: Keystone/Gaetan Bally, apart from 13: Commune of Köniz)

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SWI swissinfo.ch - a branch of Swiss Broadcasting Corporation SRG SSR