Also known as: Coire, Coira
Chur, Switzerland's oldest city, is more than just a gateway to the majestic Alps; it's a living museum where every cobblestone tells a story. This charming city in Graubünden combines a rich history with a vibrant cultural life and a direct connection to overwhelming nature. A stroll through Chur is a journey through time, from prehistoric settlements to medieval fortifications and modern art, all surrounded by a breathtaking mountain landscape.
A Journey Through Time: From Ancient Roots to Medieval Splendor
Chur's history stretches back thousands of years, long before the Romans arrived here. The city is one of the oldest settlements in Switzerland, and in the Ausstellung Urgeschichte (Prehistory Exhibition), you'll discover finds dating back to the Stone Age. It's a window into a forgotten world, where you can imagine how people lived on sacred ground here.
From these deep roots, we move to the Middle Ages, a period that still characterizes Chur's cityscape. The imposing Malteserturm (Maltese Tower), once part of the city walls, served as a residence for the knights of the Order of Malta. This tower is a silent witness to medieval defenses and a powerful symbol of resilience and heritage.
Access to the old town is marked by the majestic Obertor (Upper Gate), a historic gate that has welcomed travelers for centuries. It is the boundary between bustling modern life and the charming, winding streets of the past. Once inside, history further unfolds in the Rätisches Museum (Rhaetian Museum), housed in a beautiful patrician house. This museum tells the story of the Graubünden region, from prehistory to the present, with a wealth of artifacts and exhibitions.
High above the city, the Kathedrale St. Mariä Himmelfahrt (Cathedral of St. Mary of the Assumption) towers, a breathtaking example of Romanesque and Gothic architecture. The history of this cathedral dates back to the 5th century, and inside you'll discover an 8th-century crypt and beautiful stained-glass windows. It's a place you won't soon forget, where every stone carries a story of centuries-old devotion and craftsmanship.
Art, Culture, and Vibrant City Life
Chur is not only rich in history but also in culture and vibrancy. The Bündner Kunstmuseum (Graubünden Art Museum), housed in the beautiful Villa Planta, is a 19th-century architectural jewel. Inside, you'll discover a fascinating collection highlighting the art history of Graubünden and Switzerland, where the old and the new converge.
The heart of Chur beats at Arcasplatz (Arcas Square), a lively plaza that has been a meeting point for centuries. The beautiful Arcasbrunnen (Arcas Fountain), with its detailed sculptures, is not only a source of water but also a symbol of the city, beautifully depicting the legend of Arcas, the son of Callisto. It's a place full of stories and tradition.
For a moment of peace in the middle of the city, there's Fontanapark (Fontana Park), a green lung named after the Fontana family who laid out a garden here in the 18th century. The Hercules Fountain, with its powerful statues, is a central point and a reminder of Chur's rich history. And hidden in a quiet side street, you'll find the charming Fontanna, a small, beautiful fountain that offers an oasis of calm and recalls a time when fountains were essential water sources.
Gateway to Alpine Splendor
Chur's unique location makes it the perfect base for adventures in the Alps. Here begins one of the most breathtaking train journeys in the world: the Bernina Express. This train ride is a rolling masterpiece of engineering and natural beauty, taking you through spectacular landscapes of glaciers and palm trees – an unforgettable experience.
To experience nature up close, delve into the wonderful world of the Alps at the Bündner Naturmuseum (Graubünden Nature Museum). Here you'll discover the breathtaking biodiversity of Graubünden, from majestic ibex to the smallest alpine flowers. It's a place where you can experience nature up close, even when you're in the middle of the city, a treasure trove of natural secrets.
And for those who truly want to venture into the mountains, at the foot of the Chur Bergbahnen (Brambrüesch) (Chur Mountain Railways (Brambrüesch)) lies your gateway to the breathtaking mountains surrounding Chur. This modern valley station is a hub of adventure, where the city seamlessly transitions into wild nature. Within minutes, you're transported from the city to a beautiful mountain world, ready for a ride up and a new adventure.
- 12 stops
- Start anywhere
- ~3,1 km route length
- ~531 m longest stretch
- about 1,5–2 h duration
- Free
