Switzerland has an expansive history that is evident through its many revered historic sites spanning from Neolithic period, antiquity and present day. These landmarks can be found from Neolithic period through antiquity to present day.
The Lion Monument in Lucerne stands as more than just an artifact: it represents Swiss bravery and perseverance, while Grossmunster Church serves as both an historic landmark and church.
Chapel Bridge
Chapel Bridge (locally referred to as Kapellbrucke or ‘Kapellbruck’) in Lucerne is an historic footbridge which spans diagonally over the River Reuss. It is one of Europe’s oldest covered wooden bridges and world’s oldest surviving truss bridge. Additionally, this landmark is well-known for the paintings covering its roof that depict stories about Lucerne and Switzerland from its rich past.
This bridge was constructed using an ancient medieval technique that combined robustness and aesthetic beauty, as well as being well-known for withstanding earthquakes.
The Water Tower at Chapel Bridge dates back to around 1330s and takes its name from its function of serving as a water tower. Today it serves as a landmark, making an octagonal structure visible from across the bridge that visitors should visit as they explore Old Town districts nearby for cafes, boutiques and historical attractions.
Landwasser Viaduct
Landwasser Viaduct, one of Switzerland’s most iconic railway bridges, can be found near Filisur Village in Graubunden canton and forms part of Albula Line of Rhaetian railway – it has also been recognized by UNESCO World Heritage. It features impressive stone architectural style which complements perfectly Alpine surroundings.
Landwasser Viaduct was constructed between 1901/1902 as an incredible engineering feat; measuring 142 meters long by 65 meters high and with main pillars built without scaffolding but using only two cranes to construct. Due to rail transport’s extreme sensitivity to grade changes, its construction was an astounding engineering accomplishment; only two cranes were needed.
Photograph Landwasser Viaduct during the afternoon when the sun shines directly on it for best results, although you might need to wait at times until space opens up at the top viewpoint. Also consider walking down to its lower viewpoint by Landwasser River for another angle – it’s an enjoyable walk that won’t strain you too much!
Lion Monument
The Lion Monument, or Lowendenkmal in German, honors Swiss mercenary soldiers who paid with their lives while guarding Louis XVI during his Tuileries Palace protection during the French Revolution. Constructed by Lucas Ahorn between 1820-1821 with designs by Bertel Thorvaldsen (classicist Danish sculptor) this memorial stands tall today as an impressive sight.
At the edge of medieval town, this sandstone monument depicts a dying lion impaled on a spear affixed to his side and resting his front paw on an additional shield bearing fleur-de-lis symbolizing French monarchy; his other front paw rests upon another shield bearing Swiss coat of arms and bearing the dedication “Helvetiorum Fidei ac Virtuti”, listing 760 officers who have made the ultimate sacrifice.
Pfyffer intended for his monument to honor an ideal rather than the power of French monarchy, believing that men’s sacrifice was more significant than protecting a royal family. Though many liberal politicians opposed its construction, its symbolic nature made it become part of Swiss national history – still inspiring visitors today.
Grossmunster Church
Grossmunster Church (German for “large cathedral”) stands out among Zurich landmarks as an iconic building from 12th-century. Its twin towers stand out on the cityscape, drawing thousands of visitors daily. Furthermore, Romanesque architecture lends it significance in Swiss history.
According to legend, Emperor Charlemagne discovered Felix and Regula’s graves during a hunting expedition. His horse accidentally found this last resting place of two of the city’s patron saints – prompting Charlemagne to build both a church and monastery on this spot.
As part of Zwingli’s movement following the Reformation, churches were central to his movement. He used them to deliver his fiery sermons, dramatically changing how churches operated. Today, his influence can still be felt at his former church which now serves as a Protestant heritage center, housing various items associated with Reformation such as his original pulpit from where Zwingli delivered fiery sermons as well as printing presses from which his sermons emanated.
