Bündner Kunstmuseum: A Cultural Gem in Chur

The Bündner Kunstmuseum, or Graubünden Art Museum, is a must-see cultural institution located in the heart of Chur. Founded in 1919, the museum showcases a diverse collection of Swiss art, with a particular emphasis on artists hailing from the Graubünden region. The museum's collection originated around 1900, driven by a desire to capture the essence of the Graubünden's mountainous terrain and the dynamic interplay of migration and tourism. The museum is comprised of two architecturally distinct buildings: the neoclassical Villa Planta, built in 1875, and a contemporary extension designed by Estudio Barozzi Veiga and added in 2016. The Villa Planta, designed by Johannes Ludwig, was originally a private residence showcasing neo-Renaissance style with Orientalist influences. The extension offers a contrasting modern aesthetic with a gridded facade in cast concrete. The two buildings are connected underground, creating a seamless museum experience. The Bündner Kunstmuseum's collection includes over 8,000 works spanning from the 18th century to the present day. Visitors can admire pieces by renowned artists such as Angelika Kauffmann, the Giacometti family, Ernst Ludwig Kirchner, and Giovanni Segantini. The museum also hosts temporary exhibitions showcasing historical and contemporary Swiss and international artists. Free audio guides are available in multiple languages, offering informative insights into selected works.