Kapellbrücke

The unofficial symbol of Lucerne and a structure entrenched in history, i.e., the Kapellbrücke or The Chapel Bridge is the oldest covered bridge in Europe and is a sight to behold. Named after the adjacent ‘St. Peter’s Chapel’, it is also the oldest Truss Bridge to exist even to this day. This 170 m long bridge is home to a plethora of celebrated 17th century paintings that were unfortunately destroyed in a fire in the year 1993. The artwork included the biographies of St. Maurice and St. Leodegar, the patron saints of Lucerne, along with sections depicting the rich history of Switzerland. Kapellbrücke also suffered extensive damages but was restored to look like elegant footbridge that it is today. However, the triangular frames still hold some remnants of the destruction and certain charred portraits are quite impossible to ignore.

Originally built in the 14th century when Lucerne was fortified, Chapel Bridge leads to an octagonal Water Tower that was once a torture chamber, a prison and even a municipal registry. Today, it is a perfect place to watch the sunset and take pictures of the art, the cityscape and the Reuss River. A medieval landmark like no other, Kapellbrücke connects the Old Town to the New Town. It is not just another bridge that you cross but a museum in its own right.

Location: Kapellbrücke, 6002 Luzern, Switzerland
Opening Hours: Open 24 Hours