The Cabalet Park
The origin of the term “Cabalet” remains a mystery today. Although no precise etymology has been identified, several hypotheses suggest possible meanings of the term: a slightly elevated place, a spot with huts, an enclosure for grazing horses, with the latter hypothesis seeming the most likely.
This name, recorded on city plans as early as 1722 and mentioned earlier, is typically Bullois. It even appears to be unique in Switzerland, giving the location a singular historical identity.
Situated outside the walls of the historic centre, the site of Cabalet became the main cemetery of the city in 1853. This decision was made by the authorities in response to significant population growth: the population rose from 1,000 inhabitants in 1722 to nearly 4,000 in 1912. The cemetery around the church of Bulle had become completely inadequate, and it was Cabalet that became the city’s “new” cemetery.
As early as 1908, the authorities decided to relocate the cemetery once again; it was established on the outskirts of the city, where the current cemetery is located. The cemetery at Cabalet was gradually abandoned, before being officially decommissioned in 1927. Only the Calvaire and its sculptures remain at the centre of the current park. Over several decades, the site underwent a remarkable transition: it hosted religious events, sports competitions, and even served as a playground for the pupils of the nearby primary school from 1953. In 1978, the establishment of the Musée gruérien and the library on the edge of the site gave it a new social and cultural purpose.
The current urban park, inaugurated in 1990 according to the plans of the architectural firm Jacques Pasquier and François Glasson, has been gradually adopted by the population. It was contested at the time of its creation due to an architectural style in concrete that was seen as brutal and unsafe for children. The layout plays on a duality between memory and conviviality, incorporating fountains and an open stage for events. At the heart of this garden, a playful pathway of hornbeam hedges has been designed; its dense green walls provide a popular discovery space for families. This treed heritage is complemented by sycamore maples that offer generous shade, while the surroundings of the neighbouring castle retain more common ornamental species.
Among the emblematic elements stands a lime tree that one might call “the lime tree of the Arts.” Offered by the Music Corps of the City of Bulle to commemorate the excellent results of the Cadets during the Cantonal Festival of 1985, it was planted in 1989. This lime tree has strong symbolic value: it is a direct descendant of the historic lime tree of Murten, which stood in front of the cantonal hotel in Fribourg and commemorated the victory of the Confederates in 1476 against Charles the Bold.
Today, the Cabalet square has established itself as a centre of social and cultural life in Bulle. A true link between the castle and the hub formed by the Musée gruérien and the Library, this intergenerational space pulses with events such as the Music Festival and the summer event Cabal'été. With its playground, water feature, and hornbeam pathway, the site offers a daily oasis of relaxation for residents. This dynamic is set to strengthen with new projects on the horizon: the enlargement and renovation of the museum and library (completion of works scheduled for 2027-2028), as well as the restoration and revitalisation of the castle (completion of works expected in 2033), which will make this area a green oasis dedicated to soft mobility and the cultural vibrancy of the city.
Information
Musée gruérien
Rue de la Condémine 25
1630 Bulle
La Gruyère Tourisme
Centre commercial Velâdzo (rez inférieur)
Place de la Gare 3
1630 Bulle
