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Lucerne's Star Attraction: Kapellbrücke Bridge
Published by Scottie Bakes, Writer
Country: Switzerland 
The Experience
In the tiny Swiss town of Lucerne there are numerous little treasures to be found, one of which happens to be Europe's oldest wooden bridge. The Kapellbrücke (German for Chapel Bridge) was built in 1333 and constructed entirely of wood and stone. It remains so today despite a fire in August 1993.
Like any bridge, the Kapellbrücke acted as a means of fast and easy transportation, but more importantly it was built to provide protection to the city. The Kapellbrücke Chapel Bridge runs around 200 meters in length, and in the center it attaches to the Wasserturm (Watertower), which over the centuries has served many purposes, including a prison, torture chamber, watchtower, and even a treasury.
Although much of the Kapellbrücke Bridge was destroyed by the fire, the original stone columns and most of the piers, which are a combination of wood and stone, still remain. There are even some small sections of wood that were salvaged and included in the reconstruction. The older parts are much darker in colour. The Wasserturm is another part that was able to bear most of the fire's assault. Today it is once again considered a watchtower, and is the first in a series of seven towers that are connected by the city wall. Unfortunately this tower cannot be accessed, but most of the others can be and provide a wonderful afternoon hike with picturesque views of the Lucerne.
The walls offer a timeline of the Chapel Bridge and its role in the city's long history, and the ceiling includes paintings depicting great battles, moments and milestones. Provided you have some basic carpentry skills, you are encouraged to leave your own little mark in certain areas. Despite the short length of the Kapellbrücke, it's very easy to get distracted and spend a good hour crossing it. All the historic scriptures, murals and, of course, the beautiful view of the Reuss River, leave you lost in awe... And then reality comes knocking and you realize that there are no bathrooms near by, and this puts some pep back in your step.
Although Chapel Bridge is Lucerne's star attraction, it has some great co-stars that must be included in the checklist. Walking the city wall and hiking up its tower can be nicely complimented by a picnic along the Reuss River. Lucerne is also renown for being what Mark Twain described as, "The most mournful and moving piece of stone in the world." The Löwendenkmal (The Lion Monument) was hewn between 1820 and 1821 to commemorate the Swiss Guards who were massacred in 1792 during the French Revolution.
The town of Lucerne may not be on the top of many peoples' to-do list, but surrounded by all of Europe's crazy hustle and bustle, it's definitely a great detour for a couple days of rejuvenation, while still adding an impressive badge to your travels.
Like any bridge, the Kapellbrücke acted as a means of fast and easy transportation, but more importantly it was built to provide protection to the city. The Kapellbrücke Chapel Bridge runs around 200 meters in length, and in the center it attaches to the Wasserturm (Watertower), which over the centuries has served many purposes, including a prison, torture chamber, watchtower, and even a treasury.
Although much of the Kapellbrücke Bridge was destroyed by the fire, the original stone columns and most of the piers, which are a combination of wood and stone, still remain. There are even some small sections of wood that were salvaged and included in the reconstruction. The older parts are much darker in colour. The Wasserturm is another part that was able to bear most of the fire's assault. Today it is once again considered a watchtower, and is the first in a series of seven towers that are connected by the city wall. Unfortunately this tower cannot be accessed, but most of the others can be and provide a wonderful afternoon hike with picturesque views of the Lucerne.
The walls offer a timeline of the Chapel Bridge and its role in the city's long history, and the ceiling includes paintings depicting great battles, moments and milestones. Provided you have some basic carpentry skills, you are encouraged to leave your own little mark in certain areas. Despite the short length of the Kapellbrücke, it's very easy to get distracted and spend a good hour crossing it. All the historic scriptures, murals and, of course, the beautiful view of the Reuss River, leave you lost in awe... And then reality comes knocking and you realize that there are no bathrooms near by, and this puts some pep back in your step.
Although Chapel Bridge is Lucerne's star attraction, it has some great co-stars that must be included in the checklist. Walking the city wall and hiking up its tower can be nicely complimented by a picnic along the Reuss River. Lucerne is also renown for being what Mark Twain described as, "The most mournful and moving piece of stone in the world." The Löwendenkmal (The Lion Monument) was hewn between 1820 and 1821 to commemorate the Swiss Guards who were massacred in 1792 during the French Revolution.
The town of Lucerne may not be on the top of many peoples' to-do list, but surrounded by all of Europe's crazy hustle and bustle, it's definitely a great detour for a couple days of rejuvenation, while still adding an impressive badge to your travels.
When to Go to Chapel Bridge
The best part about Lucerne's attractions and Chapel Bridge is that they are open year round and are free. It is a great stop for budget backpackers as it is a very inexpensive town with enough to do for a couple days. Although I'm sure it would be great to visit anytime of year, I suggest the summer months.
Odds n' Ends
The Tourist Hotel is a great hostel to stay in. It’s very central, has a community kitchen, free breakfast (and not just cereal and bread: I mean eggs, meats, cheese etc).
Recommended Places to Stay
Additional Places to Stay Nearby
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The Ameron Hotel Flora underwent extensive renovation in 2008 and presents a friendly atmosphere and excellent service. Only 150 metres from the famous Kapllebr?cke next ... 0 miles away
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Media References
- Lucerne Walking Tours - NYTimes.com (newspaper)
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