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Kathedrale St. Mariä Himmelfahrt: A Historical and Architectural Masterpiece

Discover Chur's Kathedrale St. Mariä Himmelfahrt: a captivating blend of Romanesque and Gothic architecture with a rich history and cultural significance.

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The Kathedrale St. Mariä Himmelfahrt (Cathedral of the Assumption of Mary) in Chur is a stunning blend of Romanesque and Gothic architecture, with a history dating back to the 5th century. Serving as a significant religious and cultural landmark, the cathedral features impressive frescoes, intricate wood carvings, and a treasury of historical artifacts.

A brief summary to Kathedrale St. Mariä Himmelfahrt

  • Monday 7 am-7 pm
  • Tuesday 8 am-7 pm
  • Wednesday 7 am-7 pm
  • Thursday 7 am-7 pm
  • Friday 7 am-7 pm
  • Saturday 7 am-7 pm
  • Sunday 7 am-7 pm

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning to experience the cathedral's peaceful atmosphere with fewer crowds.
  • Check the schedule for services or concerts to enjoy the cathedral's excellent acoustics and spiritual ambiance.
  • Take your time to explore the intricate details of the late-Gothic high altar and the Romanesque sculptures.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Kathedrale St. Mariä Himmelfahrt is located on Hof 18, in the heart of Chur's Old Town, which is largely car-free and easily walkable. From the Rathaus (Town Hall), walk uphill, following the signs for 'Kathedrale'. The walk is approximately 5-10 minutes, passing through charming streets and historical buildings. No costs are involved.

  • Public Transport

    From Chur's main train station, Stadtbus Chur (city bus) lines provide regular service to the Old Town. Take a bus to the 'Postplatz' stop, which is a short walk to the cathedral. A single fare for a short distance ride is approximately CHF 4. From Postplatz, walk uphill towards the Bischöfliches Schloss (Bishop's Palace); the Kathedrale is located next to it.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are available from Chur's main train station. A taxi ride to the Kathedrale St. Mariä Himmelfahrt costs approximately CHF 8-28, depending on traffic and the specific route. The journey takes around 5-10 minutes. Ask the driver to drop you off as close to the Bischöfliches Schloss as possible, as the immediate area around the cathedral has restricted vehicle access.

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Discover more about Kathedrale St. Mariä Himmelfahrt

Kathedrale St. Mariä Himmelfahrt, or the Cathedral of the Assumption of Mary, stands as a powerful symbol of Chur's rich history and cultural heritage. The cathedral's roots trace back to the 5th century when it was initially built as a bishop's church. The structure that stands today was constructed between 1154 and 1270, atop early Christian foundations. Over the centuries, it has undergone several renovations, with original elements carefully preserved and restored, offering visitors an authentic glimpse into its storied past. The cathedral's architecture is a captivating blend of Romanesque and Gothic styles, with Baroque features added during later restorations. The exterior boasts an imposing bell tower, while the interior showcases stunning medieval frescoes and intricate wood carvings adorning the choir stalls. A notable feature is its crypt, one of Switzerland's oldest surviving architectural structures, dating back to the 8th century, housing relics and tombs of past bishops. Serving as a vital place of worship and spiritual reflection, the Kathedrale St. Mariä Himmelfahrt is dedicated to the Assumption of the Virgin Mary. It holds regular services and is also a popular venue for concerts due to its excellent acoustics. The cathedral is more than just a religious site; it's a cultural treasure offering insights into Chur's past. Following extensive restoration work, the cathedral reopened in 2007 and is considered one of Switzerland's most important cultural monuments.

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