Photoessay: Post Cards from Chur: Switzerland’s Oldest City

By Rashmi Gopal Rao

There is no dearth of picturesque towns and cities when in the land of Helvita aka Switzerland. Chur, which is the oldest city of the country is one such Alpine beauty. The capital of the Graubünden canton, Chur forms for a perfect day trip from Zurich. On my recent visit to this historical city, I witnessed a number of interesting sights spanning from monuments to markets. Here are some captures:

The old town or Altstadt is one of the best preserved in Switzerland and the alley woven area is home to some heritage buildings, cafes and boutique shops. There was a vibrant market in the center as we visited on a Saturday. The entrance to the old town is through its old defensive walls. The below picture depicts the Obertor, a four-storey building with an archway at the bottom.

Photoessay: Post Cards from Chur: Switzerland’s oldest cityEntrance to the old town in Chur Photoessay: Post Cards from Chur: Switzerland’s oldest cityOld town, Chur Photoessay: Post Cards from Chur: Switzerland’s oldest cityFarmers’ market in Old town, Chur Photoessay: Post Cards from Chur: Switzerland’s oldest cityA medieval building in old town, Chur

The city’s most iconic landmark is Martinskirche with its distinctive spire and clock face. Another key sight is the St Maria Himmelfahrt which is a 12th century cathedral. Located at a higher altitude, this one offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

St Maria Himmelfahrt, Chur Views close to St Maria Himmelfahrt, Chur

The Obertor bridge over the Plessur river is an absolutely beautiful sight with vibrant flowers and the view of the mountains beyond.

Obertor bridge over the Plessur river Another view of Chur

The Rhaetian Railway (RhB) Administration Building close to the railway station is an impressive building and so is the Stadt garden in the city.

Rhaetian Railway (RhB) Administration Building, Chur Stadt garden, Chur

If you are a fan of museums and interested in history, art and culture, the Rätisches Museum is worth a visit. It houses thousands of artefacts related to Graubünden’s culture and history.

Inside Rätisches Museum, Chur

I also witnessed a flea market in Chur which also included a kinder market, one by and for children!

Flea market in Chur Kinder market in Chur

Click here and here to read about other picturesque towns of Switzerland.