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Kathedrale St. Mariä Himmelfahrt: A Romanesque Masterpiece in Chur

Explore Chur's Kathedrale St. Mariä Himmelfahrt, a stunning blend of Romanesque and Gothic architecture with a rich history dating back centuries.

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The Kathedrale St. Mariä Himmelfahrt (Cathedral of the Assumption) in Chur is an architectural gem with roots tracing back to the 5th century. The current structure, built between 1154 and 1270, showcases a blend of Romanesque and Gothic styles. It stands as a testament to the city's rich history and religious significance.

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 for a quieter experience and to fully appreciate the peaceful atmosphere.
  • Check the schedule for services or events to experience the cathedral's spiritual significance.
  • Take time to admire the stained glass windows and the late Gothic high altar by Jakob Russ.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Kathedrale St. Mariä Himmelfahrt is located in Chur's Old Town and is easily accessible on foot. From the Rathaus (Town Hall), walk uphill through the charming streets. The cathedral is situated on Hof 18, a short walk from Hofplatz.

  • Public Transport

    If arriving by train or bus at Chur's main station, take a local Stadtbus Chur line to a stop near Hofplatz. From there, it's a short walk to the cathedral. A single fare on Stadtbus Chur costs approximately CHF 3.00.

  • Driving

    If driving, take the "Chur Nord" or "Chur Süd" exit from the A13 highway and follow signs to the city center. Park in the "City" or "Stadtbaumgarten" multi-story car parks and walk into the Old Town. Parking at Parking Hof Kathedrale, located at Hof, is also an option, with rates of CHF 1.60 per hour and a maximum parking duration of 4 hours. Other parking options include Parking City, which offers 24-hour parking. Parking Schiba is another option, costing CHF 1.50 per hour or CHF 8.00 per day.

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Discover more about Kathedrale St. Mariä Himmelfahrt

Rising above Chur's Old Town, the Kathedrale St. Mariä Himmelfahrt is more than just a cathedral; it's a journey through centuries of history and architectural evolution. Originally built as a bishop's church around the 5th century, the cathedral has undergone numerous transformations, with the present Romanesque-Gothic structure dating back to 1154-1270. The exterior captivates with its imposing bell tower and a main portal flanked by slender columns adorned with early Gothic floral capitals. The large arched window in the central axis is considered the largest medieval window in Graubünden. Inside, the cathedral reveals a treasure trove of artistic and historical artifacts. Highlights include the late Gothic high altar crafted by Jakob Russ in 1492 and the intricately carved choir stalls. The crypt, one of Switzerland's oldest surviving architectural structures, houses relics and tombs of past bishops. Dedicated to the Assumption of the Virgin Mary, the Kathedrale St. Mariä Himmelfahrt remains an active place of worship, hosting regular services and concerts due to its excellent acoustics. The cathedral's 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.

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