Meet Alexandre Schmid, watchman of the Cathedral

A journey between history and chance

When you ask Alexandre what led him to become the main watch, his answer is surprising: he was never a substitute watch! He came across an advertisement a bit out of chance, applied for the job a bit out of passion and met his predecessor Renato Häusler a lot out of curiosity. “No particular talent is needed for this job,” he jokes, “just a deep love for Lausanne.”

Now 32, Alexandre grew up between Lausanne and Yverdon, one foot in the countryside, the other treading urban streets. Bachelor’s degree in history in hand, he decided to definitely settle in Lausanne. However, it was only after a stay in Germany that he realised how close to his heart the city was. “I returned, thinking that Lausanne truly is the place where I belong. It’s a world of endless discoveries where, every day, I discover new streets or paths, and I fall in love with the city a little more,” he confides.

The nocturnal round, an ancestral ritual

Five nights a week, Alexandre climbs the 153 steps of the Cathedral to reach the belfry. From there, Lausanne stretches as far as the eye can see, immersing the visitors in a breathtaking panorama. Every hour on the hour from 10 pm to 2 am, he makes sure all is well and calls out the traditional “This is the watch, the hour of 10 has struck!” A task he perfected during a most singular training, under the guidance of Renato Häusler. He comments with a mysterious smile that “the calling requires a certain mastery, but you get used to it”.

When asked if he keeps a record of his rounds, he smiles again. “No records nor reports, just unfailing punctuality! I also have some organisational tasks, as I manage the schedules of my substitutes,” he explains. It’s good to know that even the most magical of jobs in Lausanne requires some administration.

Nocturnal mysteries and anecdotes

At night, the belfry becomes the setting for sometimes ludicrous events. Alexandre shares, half amused, half worried: “People sometimes try to climb up to the top of the Cathedral on the scaffolding!” and reminds us that it’s dangerous! To meet the watch, it’s a lot safer to book your visit. And indeed, in the summer, many of his evenings are kept quite busy with Lausanners who wish to show the city to visiting friends.

Secret holder and observer of history

Beyond his role as a watch, Alexandre sees himself as an ambassador of Lausanne history. His curiosity led him to discover the whole history of the watch, a world he knew nothing about before getting the job. “The tradition of the watch fascinates many people, even my friends! I didn’t think that taking up my post would be met with such enthusiasm!” he commented.

Young people also seem to be rediscovering this strange and endearing figure that stands alone, scrutinising the sleeping streets. To Alexandre, preserving the mystery is crucial; “The watch is a silent presence, a timeless figure. I believe we shouldn’t change anything.”

A dream of a solstice

Among his favourite moments of the year, Alexandre mentions without hesitation the nights around June 21, when the sun takes a bit longer to set and sometimes lets a golden light float over the town. “From the higher gallery of the belfry, the birds-eye view over the city and Lake Geneva is magical” he explains, with stars in his eyes.

Clearly, Lausanne can rest in peace under the kindly eye of its watch. At the top of the Cathedral, Alexandre Schmid observes the city he loves, perpetuating with humour and passion an occupation as unique as it is precious.

Practical information to visit the watch

For those who are curious, it’s possible to visit the belfry and meet Alexandre or one of his substitutes! Access is open to the public (advance booking required), every night as from 10 pm. Visits are particularly popular during the summer and the Christmas holidays, so remember to book ahead to make sure you don’t miss this unique experience at the top of Lausanne.