A historic landmark has been lost to flames as the beloved bathhouse in Rorschach, Switzerland, was completely destroyed by fire early Monday morning, December 23, 2024. The fire, which broke out around 3:30 AM, prompted immediate responses from the Kantonspolizei St. Gallen and local firefighters who found the structure engulfed upon arrival.
The bathhouse, built in 1924, was the last remaining structure of its kind along the shores of Lake Constance and held significant sentimental value for the residents of Rorschach and visitors alike. Mayor Robert Raths expressed his deep sorrow over the loss, stating, "The bathhouse has for Rorschach the same significance as the Chapel Bridge has for Lucerne." This poignant comparison highlights the emotional attachment the community had to the bathhouse, which was seen not just as a building, but as a cherished gathering place for many.
Local reports indicate no injuries resulted from the blaze, as authorities believe no one was inside the bathhouse at the time of the fire. A witness recalled, "I felt completely helpless" when they saw the flames. Another lamented, "It is just terrible," emphasizing the loss felt by the community. Many locals had fond memories of spending leisure time at the bathhouse, making it synonymous with warmth, laughter, and togetherness.
Upon the arrival of emergency crews, they were met with the disastrous scene of the bathhouse ablaze, with efforts initiated to contain the fire. The firefighters, alongside the seerettungsdienst (water rescue service), worked tirelessly to manage the situation as burning beams fell toward the lake. Yet, the damage was extensive, resulting in what has been classified as total destruction of the bathhouse.
The cause of the fire remains under investigation, and the Kantonspolizei St. Gallen is currently seeking witnesses who may have information about the early stages of the incident. The cause of the fire is still unclear, and forensic teams have been enlisted to ascertain what led to such devastation.
One former manager of the bathhouse, Marialuisa Togni, expressed her grief upon seeing the destruction, describing the news of the fire as "like a shock for her." She reminisced about the beauty of the place and how it has been ingrained in the memories of everyone who visited it. "The work there and the many wonderful experiences with the bathers will always remain close to my heart," Togni said poignantly.
While the path forward remains uncertain, there is hope among residents to see the bathhouse rebuilt. The longing to restore such a pivotal piece of Rorschach's identity is palpable, and the community is rallying together to advocate for its future. The loss has not only impacted individuals but represented the fading of history and tradition within the region.
Messages from both local leaders and residents echo the same sentiment: the bathhouse was more than just bricks and wood; it was the heart of Rorschach's social life and culture. Its destruction leaves behind sadness but also rekindles discussions about preserving and honoring the past, and igniting the community’s spirit to rebuild what has been lost.
With investigations still underway and the ashes cooled, Rorschach finds itself at a crossroads—grieving what was and contemplating what could be as they look toward the future and the possibility of resurrecting their treasured bathhouse once more.
