SOTC Blog

Known for its rolling green meadows, snowy Alps, sinful chocolates and gourmet cheeses, Switzerland seems to have stepped out of a fairy tale. But a surprisingly few people know that it is also home to over a dozen UNSECO World Heritage sites. Switzerland has a long history and a rich heritage. Hence, it’s no wonder that there are so many UNESCO sites in Switzerland. The last of Switzerland UNESCO sites was added fairly recently, in 2016, recognising the genius of Le Corbusier’s work.

Switzerland has more than its share of history, which has shaped its culture over centuries. As a visitor you have full access to explore its cultural and historical past that has been lovingly preserved for posterity. When you plan your next Swiss holiday, design your itinerary to include all UNESCO World Heritage sites Switzerland has to offer. Here, we list out all those sites to make it easier for you to plan your trip. Get ready to explore and set new travel goals.

1. Bern Old Town

The first badge of UNESCO World Heritage Switzerland earned was for Bern’s Old Town. It has lovingly preserved the country’s history, glimpses of which are apparent while walking through its ancient streets. It is home to significant historical relics such as the Prison Tower, Old Cathedral and the Clock Tower. Here, you do not explore history you walk through it.

2. Three Castles of Bellinzona

Dating back to Roman times, the castles of Castelgrande, Montebello and Sasso Corbaro are among the oldest world heritage sites Switzerland has. They’ve earned this distinction for their strategic and historical value. Check out the spectacular views from the top and marvel at the fortifications that still stand strong. Don’t miss the art exhibition showcasing Raffaello’s art in 3D.

3. Rhaetian Railway Line

The Rhaetian Railway Line snakes through Switzerland’s mountainous terrain between Thusis and Tirano. This 120-km-long line has been in operation since 1889, connecting Albula and Bernina passes, making it a part of the old guard of UNESCO sites Switzerland possesses. This feat of railway engineering passes through long tunnels and viaducts as the passengers drink in the spectacular sights.

4. La Chaux-de-Fonds/Le Locle

The cities of La Chaux-de-Fonds and Le Locle were the cradles of Swiss watchmaking, known for their world-famous precision and attention to detail. The cities showcase their unique architecture, which was designed to nurture the watchmaking industry. In addition to being idyllic, the cities are an interesting example of how watchmaking influenced the region and moulded its urban landscape.

5. Lavaux, Vineyard Terraces

Switzerland’s wine growing region also features in UNESCO’s World Heritage List due to its well-preserved villages. The vineyards here have been tended by generations of the same families since the 11^th century. Talk about having an intoxicating history! The Lavaux wine-growing region is located just 30 kilometres away from Chateau de Chillon and makes for an interesting side detour.

6. Monte San Giorgio

Categorised as a natural wonder, Monte San Giorgio is a treasure trove of fossil records going back as far as the Triassic period. Fossils found here are up to 240 million years old! The museum on site displays the treasures unearthed here. When you visit, you will be greeted by Monte San Giorgio’s resident celebrity, a 2.5-metre-long saurian Ticinosuchus.

7. Swiss Alps, Jungfrau-Aletsch

The breath-taking beauty of the landscapes of the Jungfrau-Aletsch region has earned it a place among global elite. Home to the longest glacier in the Alps, the 82,400-hectare region is culturally as well as ecologically crucial for Switzerland. The dizzying variety of flora and fauna found here is a nature-lover’s delight. The beauty here is a sight for sore eyes.

8. Abbey of St. Gallen

The Abbey of St. Gallen is a veritable slice of history that has stories to tell. It is a collection of buildings that document the history of the past 12 centuries. The cathedral occupies the place of pride at the centre. The library here boasts a collection of 1,70,000 books and more than 2,000 manuscripts along with a 2700-year-old mummy.

9. Swiss Tectonic Arena Sardona

Like our own Himalayas, the Alps have risen out of the friction between landmasses, in this case, the African and European continents. This area is ecologically important as it tells the story of the formation of the Alps in detail. Add to this the stunning untamed beauty of the soaring mountains and you get a stunning UNESCO World Heritage site.

10. Benedictine Convent of St John

Located in a picturesque valley of Graubünden, the Convent of Müstair looks over the region’s history that goes back several centuries. Some of the frescos within the convent have been painted in 800 A.D. Though it’s a heritage site, it is first and foremost a place of worship. Nuns of the order stay here and preserve their way of life.

11. Prehistoric Pile Dwellings

Steeped in history, 111 pre-historic Pile-Dwelling sites are scattered along the Alps, across various countries. But more than half of those is in Switzerland, settled along lake shores, riverbanks and wetlands. They tell a story that goes back 7,000 years and give a peek into life as it existed during the Neolithic and Bronze ages, a fascinating lesson in history.

12. Architectural Work of Le Corbusier

The latest addition to Switzerland’s world heritage sites is the work of a man who has had a major influence on the world of architecture. Found all around the world, two of the 17 projects are located in Switzerland near Lake Geneva. They were built to showcase new architectural techniques and fulfil the challenge of addressing a 20^th-century society’s needs.

Admittedly, every corner of Switzerland deserves the world heritage status. But for now, you can set exciting new #TravelGoals of visiting these 12 world heritage sites in one trip.