Kathedrale St. Mariä Himmelfahrt: A Journey Through Chur's History
Discover Chur's Kathedrale St. Mariä Himmelfahrt: A stunning blend of history, architecture, and spiritual significance in the heart of Switzerland.
Kathedrale St. Mariä Himmelfahrt, also known as the Cathedral of St. Mary of the Assumption, stands as a prominent symbol of Chur, Switzerland's rich history and religious significance. The cathedral's roots trace back to the 5th century, with the current structure built between 1154 and 1270 atop early Christian foundations. This magnificent building showcases a blend of Romanesque and Gothic architectural styles, with Baroque features added during later restorations. The exterior boasts an imposing bell tower and a facade constructed from Scalära rock. Inside, visitors can admire late Gothic high altar created by Jakob Russ in 1492, intricate wood carvings, and stunning frescoes dating back to the Middle Ages. The cathedral is dedicated to the Assumption of the Virgin Mary and continues to be an important place of worship, hosting regular services and concerts due to its excellent acoustics. One of the most remarkable features is the crypt, one of Switzerland's oldest surviving architectural structures, dating back to the 8th century. This underground chamber houses relics and tombs of bishops who served throughout history. The cathedral treasury displays Late Roman and medieval ritual objects made of gold, silver, and ivory, illustrating the 1600-year-old tradition of the oldest still functioning bishopric north of the Alps. Visiting the Kathedrale St. Mariä Himmelfahrt offers a rewarding experience for architecture enthusiasts, history buffs, and those seeking spiritual solace. The surrounding Hof square, with the Bishop's Palace, adds to the charm, especially during the Christmas season.
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning to enjoy a peaceful atmosphere and avoid crowds.
- Take a guided tour to gain deeper insights into the cathedral's history and architectural details.
- Don't miss the beautiful stained glass windows, best viewed in natural light.
- Check the schedule for concerts or special events that may be happening during your visit.
- Explore the surrounding area for local cafes and shops to enhance your experience.
A brief summary to Kathedrale St. Mariä Himmelfahrt
- Hof 18, Chur, 7000, CH
- +41812867080
- Visit website
- 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
Getting There
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Walking
The Kathedrale St. Mariä Himmelfahrt is located in the heart of Chur's Old Town, which is largely car-free and easily walkable. From the Chur train station, walk north towards the Old Town. Pass through the Obere Gasse, cross the Grabenstrasse, and continue towards the Hof. The cathedral is situated on the Hof, next to the Bishop's Palace. The walk is approximately 10-15 minutes. No costs are involved.
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Public Transport
From Chur Railway Station, take a local bus towards the Old Town. Several bus lines stop near the Kathedrale St. Mariä Himmelfahrt. Get off at the 'Chur, Malteser' stop, which is a short walk to the cathedral. Bus tickets cost CHF 2-4. Alternatively, take the city train to Chur Altstadt station, which is a 7-minute walk to the Cathedral and costs CHF 2-4.
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Taxi
Taxis are available from Chur Railway Station. A taxi ride to Kathedrale St. Mariä Himmelfahrt takes approximately 5-10 minutes, depending on traffic. The estimated fare is CHF 8-28. Taxi rates start at CHF 8.00, with an additional CHF 4.00 per kilometer.
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Parking
If driving, parking is available near the cathedral at Parking Hof Kathedrale. This parking facility is located at Hof 7000 Chur, directly by the cathedral. It is open 24/7, but has a maximum parking duration of 4 hours. Parking costs CHF 1.60 per hour. Other parking options are available in Chur, including Parking City, which is located directly in the city center.
