Matterhorn lit as a sign of hope

25th March 2020, by Abi Butcher

The iconic Matterhorn in Zermatt will be lit every night as a symbol of hope. Pic: Frank Schwarzbach

The iconic Matterhorn in Zermatt will be lit every evening with a symbol of hope to help society stand together during the coronavirus crisis.

Every evening from sunset to 2300, starting last night (Tuesday 24 March), light artist Gerry Hofstetter will illuminate the Matterhorn as a sign of hope and solidarity. This will continue until at least 19 April, weather conditions permitting.

The ski resort said in a statement: “The Matterhorn has always been a symbol of Switzerland and a place of strength and stability. Zermatt is convinced: as strong as the Matterhorn, so strong must the society stand together, be anchored and let the storm pass.

“Zermatt wants to give people a sign of hope and solidarity in this difficult time of the Coronavirus pandemic. Just like the motto ‘light is hope’. The village shows solidarity with all people who are currently suffering and is grateful to all those who are helping to overcome the crisis. This includes the medical staff, all those who ensure the logistics and the supply of the population as well as all those who stay at home out of consideration and adapt their daily routine and tasks to the circumstances”

#hope illuminated on the Matterhorn last night. Pic: Zermatt Tourism

In Switzerland, as in the UK and much of the rest of Europe, the federal recommendations are clear: “Stay at home”.

• switzerland
• zermatt
• coronavirus
• covid19

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