
Chapel Bridge (Kapellbrücke)
Lucerne's 14th-century covered wooden bridge with painted panels.
Ideal: Ideal for city walks, history, and photography.
Built around 1365, it is considered Europe's oldest surviving wooden truss bridge. In the 17th century 111 panels telling the city's history were placed in the roof triangles; the 1993 fire destroyed most of the bridge and 78 of those panels, the structure was rebuilt within a year, and remaining panels were rehung with gaps. The octagonal water tower beside it is even older than the bridge and was later used as a prison, treasury, and archive.
Why go?
- To see Lucerne's historic wooden bridge and river atmosphere
- To start an old-town walk beautifully
- To experience one of Switzerland's most classic city views
Travel tip
The bridge is calmer and better for photos early in the morning or in evening light.





