Einwohnergemeinde Gerlafingen

Welcome to Gerlafingen — tradition, community, and modern quality of life

Gerlafingen is a small, lively community in the canton of Solothurn in the Wasseramt district — characterized by history, community, and a strong interplay between industry, residential areas, and local recreation.Wikipedia+2hls-dhs-dss.ch+2

📌 Location & general conditions

• The community covers an area of approximately 1.85 km². Wikipedia+1

• With a population density of over 3,000 inhabitants per km², Gerlafingen is one of the most densely populated municipalities in the Wasseramt district. Ugeo Urbistat+1

• Gerlafingen is located on the eastern bank of the (corrected) Emme River and is surrounded by neighboring municipalities, which allows for good connectivity with the region. Wikipedia+1

🏡 A municipality with industrial heritage and social diversity

The history of Gerlafingen is closely intertwined with the industrialization of the region. As early as the 19th century, an important iron and rolling mill was established here—the former Von Roll steelworks, now Stahl Gerlafingen AG—which has had a significant impact on the economic and social structure of the village to this day. hls-dhs-dss.ch+2Wikipedia+2

• Many buildings, neighborhoods, and public facilities (schools, swimming pools, consumer goods stores, residential buildings) date back to this industrial era — evidence of a vibrant working-class and community culture. Switzerland Tourism+1

• This industrial and historical background continues to foster a strong sense of community that combines tradition with openness to change.

👥 Population & culture — colorful and diverse

Gerlafingen is characterized by a heterogeneous population — both in terms of origin and language. Wikipedia+1

• A significant proportion of the inhabitants are of foreign origin — making Gerlafingen a very international community. Wikipedia+1

• This cultural and social diversity is also reflected in religious and linguistic diversity. Wikipedia+1

• This diversity promotes a lively community life, numerous encounters, and diverse social networks — from clubs and schools to neighborhood initiatives.

🏘️ Infrastructure, administration & everyday life

Gerlafingen offers a well-structured municipal administration with clear services for residents — from resident services to building administration and school secretarial services. gerlafingen.ch+1

• Online services and digital offerings make many processes modern and convenient — from registrations and deregistrations to reserving municipal services. gerlafingen.ch+1

• Good transport and public transport connections: with Gerlafingen railway station, the town is located on the Solothurn–Langnau line of BLS AG — ideal for commuters and anyone who wants to be flexible and mobile. Wikipedia+1

🌳 Leisure, nature, and community — living and well-being

Even though Gerlafingen is small, it offers a surprising number of opportunities for leisure, recreation, and cultural life — a mix that appeals to families and singles, young and old alike. Swiss regions+2Bergfex+2

• The river landscape along the Emme, renaturalized waters, and near-natural quiet zones invite you to take walks, enjoy nature, and relax. Swiss Regions+1

• The former working-class neighborhood and industrial architecture are now part of the cultural heritage — with events, guided tours, and local initiatives that keep history alive. Switzerland Tourism+1

• The village community, clubs, and social institutions create a strong sense of togetherness—ideal for anyone who values community, belonging, and active participation.

🔄 Innovation & progress — between the past and the future

Gerlafingen is not resting on its history, but is constantly evolving: the new building zone plan, modernized transport and infrastructure projects, and new forms of living and working show that the municipality is ready to meet the demands of the present and the future. Solothurner Zeitung+1
This balance between preservation and progress is what makes Gerlafingen unique — a community that knows its roots and is at the same time open to change, growth, and modern, solidarity-based coexistence.