Bündner Kunstmuseum: A Cultural Gem in Chur

The Bündner Kunstmuseum, or Graubünden Art Museum, in Chur, Switzerland, is a cultural institution showcasing the artistic heritage of the Graubünden region and Swiss art. Founded in 1919, the museum is located in the heart of Chur. It comprises two architecturally distinct buildings: the historic Villa Planta and a modern extension designed by Barozzi Veiga, completed in 2016. The Villa Planta, built in the Neorenaissance style between 1874 and 1875, was once the private residence of Jacques Ambrosius von Planta. Its design incorporates Orientalist elements, reflecting von Planta's trading activities in Alexandria. The villa's architecture features a portico supported by columns, sphinxes, Pompeian paintings, and a Byzantine-style dome. In contrast, the cube-shaped extension boasts a gridded facade in cast concrete, offering a modern aesthetic. The extension provides additional space for exhibitions and allows for diverse art experiences. The two buildings are connected underground. The museum's collection focuses on works by artists with ties to Graubünden, including Angelica Kauffmann, the Giacometti family, Giovanni Segantini, and Ernst Ludwig Kirchner. The collection reflects the cultural situation of Graubünden, including the influence of the mountain landscape, emigration, and tourism. The museum also hosts temporary exhibitions, showcasing historical and contemporary Swiss and international artists. The Bündner Kunstmuseum actively engages with the community through diverse art education programs, making art accessible to all.