Chapel Bridge, Lucerne

See Europe's oldest covered footbridge and view the collection of paintings depicting various scenes from Lucerne's rich history at Chapel Bridge. An age-old bridge spanning the calm waters of the Reuss River, the 14th-century wooden structure once formed part of a defense system built to protect the city from possible enemy invasions. As you walk across it, look up to see the paintings on the interior triangular frames, added in the 17th century. Next to the bridge stands a 40 m (140 ft) tall octagonal tower, formerly a prison and torture chamber. Don't forget to bring your camera: the bridge and its tower count among Switzerland's most photographed historic monuments, drawing architecture buffs from distant corners of the world. Plan your visit to Chapel Bridge and a wealth of other attractions, well-known and undiscovered, using our Lucerne trip itinerary site.