Chur – Switzerland’s Oldest City and the Capital of Graubünden

OUS Academy in Switzerland
6 days ago
3 min read

Chur is known as the oldest city in Switzerland, a place where more than 5,000 years of human history meets the modern lifestyle of today. Located in the beautiful canton of Graubünden, Chur is the official capital of the region and serves as one of the most charming gateways to the Swiss Alps. For students, travellers, and culture lovers, it offers a perfect mix of nature, education, history, and urban life.

A City With Deep Historical Roots

Archaeological findings show that people lived in Chur during the Stone Age, making it one of the most ancient continuously inhabited settlements north of the Alps. Walking through its streets, visitors experience layers of history everywhere. The Old Town is especially famous for its narrow alleys, medieval buildings, and peaceful squares, all well preserved and still full of life.

The Cathedral of the Assumption stands proudly above the city. Its foundation dates back over 1,000 years, and it remains one of the most important religious and architectural landmarks in Graubünden. The Bishop’s Palace nearby completes this historic ensemble, showing the city’s important religious and cultural role throughout the centuries.

Capital of Graubünden – A Cultural and Educational Hub

Chur is the administrative heart of Graubünden, home to the cantonal government and many cultural institutions. The city hosts museums, galleries, theatres, and festivals that celebrate the unique culture of this multilingual region, where German, Romansh, and Italian traditions live side by side.

For students, Chur offers strong educational opportunities. The most notable institution is the University of Applied Sciences of the Grisons (FH Graubünden), a confirmed public university of applied sciences offering bachelor’s, master’s, and applied research programs. It attracts both Swiss and international students who want to study in a peaceful and inspiring alpine environment.

A City Surrounded by Mountains

Chur is also known for its beautiful natural surroundings. The city lies in a valley, encircled by mountains that can be reached quickly by cable cars or hiking trails. Whether someone enjoys winter sports, summer hiking, or simply relaxing outdoors, Chur provides easy access to pure Swiss nature.

The nearby mountains Brambrüesch and Dreibündenstein are popular for hiking and biking in summer, and skiing or snowshoeing in winter. Because the city is well connected by public transport, it is simple to explore the wider Graubünden region, including famous destinations like the Engadin valley, Davos, and the Rhine Gorge.

A Welcoming City for Students and Visitors

Despite being a historic city, Chur has a youthful and friendly atmosphere. Its pedestrian-only Old Town allows people to walk safely and enjoy cafés, restaurants, and local markets. The city is clean, well organized, and known for its high quality of life.

Chur also has a lively cultural scene. Music events, open-air festivals, theatre performances, and regional food traditions make it a colourful place to live and study. Students often enjoy the balance between small-city comfort and big-city services.

Modern Life and Easy Connections

Chur is very well connected to the rest of Switzerland. Trains run frequently to cities like Zurich, St. Gallen, and Lugano. This makes the city not only a beautiful place to live but also a strategic place for those who want to explore Switzerland.

The city offers modern facilities, from shopping centres to sports infrastructure. The mixture of history, culture, safety, and natural beauty makes Chur one of the most attractive cities for education, tourism, and everyday life.

Conclusion

Chur is more than just Switzerland’s oldest city; it is a living blend of culture, education, tradition, and alpine beauty. As the capital of Graubünden, it provides a high-quality environment for students and visitors alike, combining historic charm with modern opportunities.

Whether you come for study, nature, or simply to experience Swiss culture at its finest, Chur welcomes you with open arms.