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The Chapel Bridge, located in Lucerne, Switzerland, was built in 1333. It is a city symbol and the oldest wooden covered bridge in Europe, also known as the Chapel Bridge. Hundreds of religious paintings and murals adorn its transom, including depictions of the Black Death. The Chapel Bridge, spanning the Reuss River, features a 34-meter-tall octagonal water tower in the middle, forming part of the Chapel Bridge. In 1993, the Chapel Bridge was destroyed by fire, leaving only the water tower intact. The bridge has been repaired and rebuilt, and while the murals on the bridge are less impressive than they once were due to the fire, it still offers a glimpse into the romantic medieval atmosphere of Lucerne.
Temperate maritime climate, June to August
Reuss River, Octagonal Water Tower, 1-2 hours
free
All day
The Chapel Bridge in Lucerne, built in the 14th century, is one of the oldest wooden bridges in Europe. It is famous for its unique design, with a series of 17th-century paintings that depict the history of Lucerne. The bridge was part of the city’s defensive walls and has survived various fires over the centuries.
The Chapel Bridge is located in the center of Lucerne, Switzerland. It is easily accessible by walking from most parts of the city. Local buses also stop nearby, and taxis can drop you off at the closest point to the bridge.
The Chapel Bridge is open to the public 24 hours a day, though visiting during daylight hours is recommended for the best experience. Early mornings and late afternoons offer less crowded views and beautiful lighting for photography.
There is no entrance fee to visit the Chapel Bridge; it is open to the public for free. There are no tickets required for entry.
No tickets are needed to visit the Chapel Bridge, so there is no need for advance booking.
It typically takes 30 minutes to an hour to fully explore the Chapel Bridge, depending on how much time you spend admiring the paintings and the surrounding area.
Guided tours are available in Lucerne, and audio guides can be found in various languages including English, German, and French. You can book tours through local operators or the Lucerne tourism website.
Start by crossing the bridge from one side to the other, taking time to view the paintings on both sides. Afterward, explore the surrounding Old Town and enjoy a coffee or snack at one of the local cafes.
While there are no specific light shows, the Chapel Bridge is beautifully illuminated at night, providing an enchanting atmosphere for an evening visit. Special tours of Lucerne’s historic sites are also available in the evening.
The Chapel Bridge is one of Lucerne’s most popular attractions, so it can get crowded, especially during peak tourist seasons. Early mornings or late afternoons on weekdays tend to be less crowded.
The Chapel Bridge itself is accessible for all visitors, including those with limited mobility. However, there are some cobbled streets in the surrounding area that may be challenging for wheelchair users.
Most establishments around the Chapel Bridge accept credit cards and mobile payments. However, it’s advisable to carry some Swiss Francs (CHF) for smaller purchases or in case you visit smaller, more traditional shops.
Yes, there are vegetarian and vegan options available at most restaurants and cafes near the Chapel Bridge. Halal options may be found in specific restaurants in the city.
Yes, there are several souvenir shops around the Chapel Bridge offering items such as Swiss watches, chocolate, wooden figurines, and local handicrafts.
