St. Martinsplatz: The Heart of Chur's Old Town
Discover St. Martinsplatz in Chur: a vibrant square steeped in history, culture, and community spirit, surrounded by stunning architecture.
St. Martinsplatz, nestled in the oldest part of Chur, is a delightful square that captures the essence of this historic Swiss city. Situated between the Obertor and Untertor towers, it marks a key point along the ancient north-south trade route through the city. The square is a vibrant hub, alive with locals and tourists alike, surrounded by beautiful architecture and lively streets. The square's most prominent feature is the St. Martin's Church, a reformed main church that lends its name to the square. Originally built in the 8th century and rebuilt in the late Gothic style after a fire in 1464, it stands as the largest late-Gothic building in Graubünden. Since 1919, the three stained glass windows by artist Augusto Giacometti have been a special feature of this church. In front of the church stands the Martinsbrunnen, a fountain dating back to 1716, adorned with signs of the zodiac. Throughout the year, St. Martinsplatz hosts various events and cultural activities, adding to its dynamic atmosphere. Cafés and shops line the square, providing perfect spots to relax and soak in the surroundings while enjoying Swiss coffee or local delicacies. Exploring the nearby streets reveals hidden gems and quaint boutiques, offering a glimpse into Chur's daily life.
Local tips
- Visit during local events or markets for a lively atmosphere and a chance to experience local culture.
- Explore the nearby streets for unique shops and cafés, offering a taste of local life.
- Bring a camera to capture the beautiful architecture and the Martinsbrunnen fountain.
A brief summary to St. Martinsplatz
- St. Martinspl. 8-2, Chur, 7000, CH
Getting There
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Walking
St. Martinsplatz is located in the car-free Old Town of Chur, making walking the most convenient way to reach it. From the Chur train station, walk south along Bahnhofstrasse, then turn left into the Old Town. Follow the signs for St. Martinsplatz. The walk is approximately 10-15 minutes.
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Public Transport
From Chur train station, take the Rhätische Bahn to Chur Altstadt station. St. Martinsplatz is a short walk from the Chur Altstadt station. Alternatively, take bus number 9 from Chur, Fontanaplatz to Chur, Bahnhofplatz. From there, walk to St. Martinsplatz. A single bus or train fare within Chur costs approximately CHF 3.60.
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Driving
If driving, take the Chur Nord exit from the A13 motorway and follow signs to Chur. Then, follow signs to St. Martinsplatz. Parking is limited in the Old Town. Consider parking at Parkhaus City (Kaufmannstr. 6) or Parkhaus Postplatz, both within walking distance. Hourly parking rates at these garages are around CHF 1.80, with daily rates of CHF 30.
