The oldest town in Switzerland

Chur has one of the best preserved historic city centres in Switzerland. Chur is the oldest town in Switzerland and has a settlement history of over 5,000 years. The historic Old Town is very much worth a visit and is completely car-free. It offers a surprisingly large range of cultural activities, shopping, cafes, restaurants and bars.

The old town also provides a backdrop for many colourful markets like the farmer’s market every Saturday morning between May and October, the monthly flea market on Arcas square and the traditional Christmas market at the end of the year. In the historical rooms a great number of artistic and everyday requisites – not only from the Middle Ages – are displayed.

The many boutiques, restaurants, museums and galleries create an almost Mediterranean flair in the traffic-free old town.

Cathedral and Episcopal Court

The cathedral is dedicated to the assumption of the Virgin Mary and is one of the most important cultural monuments in Switzerland. The court area was settled already during Roman times, when it served as a barracks. 451 Episcopal seat with simple basilica. The second cathedral in this place was built in the 8th century.