Private Medieval City Walk

Step back in time and immerse yourself in the medieval tapestry of Lucerne, unraveling tales from the 12th to the 18th century as you traverse its cobblestone streets. Your journey begins with the haunting echo of the firehorn, heralding the arrival of the night watchman, Ralf. Through his eyes, you'll glimpse the toil and tribulations of a lower-class town servant, steeped in the history of Lucerne. Following the ancient Martiniplan, a map woven with centuries-old secrets, you'll behold iconic landmarks such as the venerable Water Tower, the storied Chapel Bridge, and the serene St. Peter's Chapel.

The St. Peter's Chapel ist the first church in town dating back to the 12th century

The Zurgilgen House and Tower is the oldest private stone house in Lucerne and was completed in 1510. It has a beautiful Gothic round tower, while the house itself was baroqueized in the 18th century.

Beneath the cobble stones at the Kapellplatz, there is still a cemetery from earlier times. On the wall of the Peterskapelle, you can see the painting of Saint Christopher. Strictly devout Catholics believe that whoever looks at the mural devoutly will not die a sudden death today. Saint Christopher is also the patron saint of travelers. Since you are also on a journey, he is also your patron saint if you want him to be.

In Furrengasse, you will hear the story of the ghost and of the Toggelis, both of whom caused mischief here at night. You will also learn why Switzerland has a cross on its flag.

The Rathausplatz is actually called Kornmarkt. Korn means grain in our language and in the past, grain was traded at this square and stored in the town hall.

The town hall is a Renaissance building and was completed in 1607. The town hall tower was built around 1500. What is special about it is the clock, which does without a minute hand. You will also see the old units of length in Lucerne, the foot and the ell.

The Brandgässli recalls a major fire of 1833. Lucerne has always suffered from large city fires. In the Middle Ages, entire districts fell victim to the flames. But even in modern times, fires have occurred repeatedly: in 1633 the Hofkirche, in 1833 between Reuss and Weinmarkt, in 1971 the train station and in 1993 the Chapel Bridge. At the guild house of the tailors and butchers, you will hear the legend of the murder night of Lucerne.

The Weinmarkt is one of the most beautiful squares in Lucerne. Many of the houses have been standing since the 16th century and are decorated with beautiful murals. In the past, fish was traded here. After Lucerne flourished thanks to the Gotthard Pass, wine was traded here. The Weinmarkt fountain is the oldest stone fountain in Lucerne and dates back to the end of the 15th century. Refresh yourself with the fresh spring water from Mount Pilatus, which has been supplying the fountains of the historic center since the 14th century. At the lower Weinmarkt, you will see a linden tree. It was here that court was held from the middle of the 13th century. A linden tree often stood at medieval judicial sites, as it was believed to keep the judge in a good mood. It was also here that sentences were carried out: beheading, hanging, burning, breaking on the wheel, hands being cut off, tongues being split, branding, etc.

On the facade of the Hotel Des Balances, you will also see the goddess Justitia. With her eyes blindfolded, holding a balance and a sword, she still symbolically holds court here. "Zöpfli" means "decorative piece" and is indeed a very special little place. The locals eat a sandwich there during their lunch break and/or enjoy a foot bath in the river. There you will hear the legend of the Pilatus Saga and learn how Mount Pilatus got its name.

The Reussbrücke is the first bridge in Lucerne and dates back to the 12th century. The first bridge was always built at the narrowest point of the river, which is exactly here. The Reussbrücke was always wide enough to be passed by carts, while the Chapel Bridge and the Spreuer Bridge were always pedestrian bridges.

Münzgasse is a small alley that most visitors to Lucerne do not get to see without a local guide, because it is somewhat hidden. The square is paved with really old cobblestones and is named after the first mint that was located here.

The House of the "Alte Suidtersche Apotheke" was built 1536 and is among the nicest gothic houses in Lucerne. The Farmacy itself was founded in 1833 and much of the interior hasn't changed since then. The absolute highlight is the medieval window as it can only be seen by night. It is a room full of old stuff as it must have been used by Pharmacists in the Middlge Ages. You can see all sorts of medicinal wood and roots, jawbones with teeth, lots of boxes and glasses, a Dragon, a Blow Fish and many other things. On the right there is a fire put looking a bit like an alchemist kitchen. This must have been the ancient Pharmacists laboratory. Also have a look at the wooden door next to the window. It is decorated with poppies in ornamental ironwork.

The former *Ritter Palace is today's cantonal government building of Lucerne. Lux Ritter, a Mayor who became very rich as a mercenary leader, had this Florentine palazzo built for himself from 1556. You will hear the true story of the unfortunate stonemason Hans von Trient. Afterwards, you will visit the building, which has a beautiful inner courtyard and loggias facing inwards. Admire the beautiful stonemasonry work, which is the work of Hans von Trient. Inside the building, you will find the wonderful Renaissance series of paintings of the Danse Macabre by Jakob von Wyl, which will be explained to you in detail by your guide. * The Ritterscher Palace is open to the public from Monday to Friday (without holidays) but can be closed for visitors also without notice in case of governmental or private events. In this case an inside visit of the building is not possible and the presentation of the Dance of Dead paintings will be on the tablet or postcards.

The Jesuit Church in Lucerne is the first large Baroque church in Lucerne and was completed in 1677. It was recently renovated and is very bright and beautifully decorated. The red marble of the altar comes from Goa in India. The side chapels are dedicated to saints, some of which are adorned with relics.

The Chapel Bridge was built in 1365 as part of the city's fortifications and, together with the adjacent Water Tower, is the most photographed attraction in Switzerland. You will hear details about its history, find out where the bridge got its name and why it was built at an angle across the river. The tour ends back at Rosengart Square, where your guide will be happy to provide you with further information about Lucerne.