Chapel Bridge & Water Tower

Where it is & how to get there

• From the station: About 3 minutes' walk from Lucerne station.
• On foot: Crosses the Reuss River diagonally to the Old Town.
• Best view: From the Rathaussteg footbridge or the lakefront.

The story of the Chapel Bridge

The Chapel Bridge was built in the 14th century as part of Lucerne's fortifications. In the 17th century its roof was decorated with triangular paintings of the city's history and patron saints.

A fire in 1993 destroyed much of the bridge and many paintings, but it was quickly rebuilt. Beside it stands the octagonal Water Tower, once used as an archive, treasury and prison.

Best time to visit

Tips before you go

• Cross it early in the morning for photos without crowds.
• Look up at the painted panels as you cross.
• Photograph the bridge with Mount Pilatus behind on a clear day.

What's around the Chapel Bridge

• Old TownPainted squares.
• Jesuit ChurchBaroque church on the river.
• Spreuer BridgeSecond covered bridge with Dance of Death paintings.
• KKL LuzernConcert hall by the lake.

Questions travellers ask