Landwasser Viaduct
Graubünden
The Landwasser Viaduct is a remarkable single-track railway bridge located in the canton of Graubünden, Switzerland, spanning the Landwasser River between Schmitten and Filisur. Constructed from dark limestone between 1901 and 1902, it features six arches resting on five tall pillars and is notable for its pronounced curve with a radius of just 100 meters, the tightest on the Albula Railway line. The viaduct stands 65 meters high and stretches 136 meters long, with its southeastern end seamlessly connecting to the 216-meter-long Landwasser Tunnel, which is carved into a vertical rock face. Designed by engineer Alexander Acatos and built by Müller & Zeerleder for the Rhaetian Railway, the structure was an engineering marvel of its time, constructed without scaffolding by using cranes and steel-reinforced cores within the pillars. It forms a signature element of the Albula Railway, a UNESCO World Heritage site since 2008, and continues to carry around 22,000 trains annually, including scenic routes like the Glacier Express. The viaduct underwent its first major renovation in 2009, preserving its historic masonry and track trough. Its dramatic setting and elegant design make it an iconic symbol of Swiss railway engineering and a must-see attraction for visitors exploring the Alpine region.
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Tip: For the best experience, visit during daylight to fully appreciate the viaduct's impressive architecture and scenic surroundings. Travelers are advised to book panoramic train journeys like the Glacier Express or Bernina Express in advance to secure seats with optimal views of the viaduct. A footpath near the bridge allows visitors to approach its foundation within a 10-minute walk from the Alvaneu–Filisur road. Avoid visiting during heavy rain or winter storms for safety and clearer views. Discounts may be available for group bookings and children on Rhaetian Railway services.
Interesting facts
- •The Landwasser Viaduct has a highly pronounced curve with a radius of only 100 meters, the smallest on the Albula Railway line.
- •It was constructed without scaffolding, a rare and innovative technique at the time, using cranes and steel-reinforced cores inside the pillars.
- •The viaduct stands 65 meters high and stretches 136 meters long, with six arches each spanning 20 meters.
- •Approximately 22,000 trains cross the viaduct annually, averaging about 60 trains daily.
- •The southeastern abutment of the viaduct leads directly into the 216-meter-long Landwasser Tunnel, carved into a vertical rock face.
- •The Landwasser Viaduct is part of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Albula Railway since 2008.
- •It has appeared briefly in popular culture, including the 1997 animated film "Anastasia" and the movie "A Cure for Wellness".
History
Construction of the Landwasser Viaduct began in March 1901 and was completed by October 1902.
Designed by engineer Alexander Acatos, the bridge was built by Müller & Zeerleder for the Rhaetian Railway to connect the Albula Railway line.
Its construction was notable for the innovative technique of building the main limestone pillars without scaffolding, instead using internal steel supports and cranes.
The viaduct became operational shortly after completion and has since remained a vital railway link in the region.
In 2008, the Albula Railway, including the Landwasser Viaduct, was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site.
The viaduct underwent its first significant renovation in 2009, over a century after its construction, to maintain its structural integrity and appearance.
Place Guide
Viaduct Structure and Arches1901-1902
The Landwasser Viaduct features six limestone arches, each spanning 20 meters, supported by five tall pillars built around steel-reinforced cores. The arches are flat and the entire structure curves sharply with a radius of 100 meters, making it a unique engineering feat.
Landwasser Tunnel Entrance1901-1902
At the southeastern end of the viaduct, the railway track enters the 216-meter-long Landwasser Tunnel, which is carved vertically into a rock face. The tunnel's entrance aligns perfectly with the viaduct, creating a dramatic transition from the bridge to the tunnel.
Viewing Points and Access Path
A footpath from the Alvaneu–Filisur road leads visitors within 10 minutes to the foundation of the viaduct, offering close-up views. Additional vantage points are available from nearby roads and from trains approaching from Tiefencastel or Davos, providing spectacular perspectives of the curved viaduct and tunnel.
Contact
Phone: 081 288 65 65
