History of Plan-les-Ouates

Many of the names of the streets and alleyways of Plan-les-Ouates are drawn from the town’s rich history and the historical figures that marked its development

Ruelle du Hornuss: Between 1920-1970, the Hornusser practiced a game which consisted of intercepting as quickly as possible a small puck called a “nuss” with the help of large wooden bats. The puck was thrown at great speed with the help of a long throwing stick which could project the puck 100 to 150 meters.

Ruelle du P’tit-Gris: “P’tit-Gris” was the nickname given by locals to Marius Tagini. Famously dressed almost exclusively in grey “Gris”, Tagini was a teacher, secretary at city hall and, using the pseudonym Mimus, the author of several local publications.

Place des Aviateurs: At the beginning of the 20th century, aviation pioneers used the large areas of flat land in the plain to test their flying machines. In August 1911, Switzerland’s first air show took place in Plan-les-Ouates.

Chemin des Vers: Vers was the name of a small hamlet made up of a few small homes built on the Jura side of the road leading to Chambéry (this road is now the Route de Saint Julien). Around 1700, “Vers” was renamed “Plan-les-Ouates”.

The route des chevaliers de Malte: The name of this road refers to the company of the Commanderie de Compesières of which the commune of Plan-les-Oates was a co-owner until 1995.

Place des Bourneaux: Bourneaux is a Savoyard and Swiss Romand term to describe the pipes made of fired clay or wood that were used to carry water from a fountain or the fountain itself.

At 150 route de Saint Julien, you may observe a typical 18th century building which reflects the architectural style of the period.

At 170 de la route de Saint-Julien, is the le Château. This manor house, typical of the 18th century, has been completely renovated by the watch manufacturer Patek-Philippe.