Schöllenen Gorge
Uri
Schöllenen Gorge, located in the Swiss canton of Uri, is a striking natural feature carved by the upper Reuss River between Göschenen and Andermatt. Enclosed by sheer granite cliffs, the gorge has historically been a formidable natural barrier, only passable via a challenging footpath in the Middle Ages. Around 1230, the Walser people constructed a wooden bridle path and bridge, opening the crucial St Gotthard Pass route that connected northern and southern Europe, impacting regional and imperial politics. The gorge is renowned for the Teufelsbrücke (Devil's Bridge), a stone bridge famed both for its engineering and the local legends surrounding its construction. The gorge also features significant geological formations marking the boundary between the Aar massif and the Gotthard nappe, with exposed Triassic and Jurassic sediments. Modern infrastructure includes roads and railways with spectacular bridges and tunnels that traverse the challenging terrain. Schöllenen Gorge remains a symbol of Swiss alpine engineering and cultural heritage, attracting visitors interested in natural beauty, history, and folklore.
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Tip: Visit Schöllenen Gorge in late spring through early autumn for the best weather and accessibility. Advance ticket reservations are generally not required as the gorge is an open natural site, but check local transport schedules if using the railway. Wear sturdy footwear for walking paths near the gorge. Explore early in the day to avoid crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures. Guided tours may enhance understanding of the gorge's history and geology. Discounts may be available for Swiss Travel Pass holders or regional transport cards.
Interesting facts
- •The name 'Schöllenen' comes from the Rumantsch word 'scalinae' meaning 'stairs', linked to steps carved into the rock to aid passage.
- •The Twärrenbrücke, a wooden bridge built around 1230, was supported by beams laid across the gorge and was a technical feat of its time.
- •The Devil's Bridge name first appeared in records in 1587 and is linked to a local legend involving the Devil building the bridge and being tricked by villagers.
- •The Urnerloch tunnel, built in the early 18th century, was one of the earliest road tunnels in Europe, piercing through the rock to bypass flood-prone areas.
- •A replica of the original stone Devil's Bridge stands in the Klein-Glienicke park near Berlin, symbolizing the Alpine crossing.
History
The name Schöllenen derives from the Rumantsch word 'scalinae' meaning 'stairs,' referring to steps cut into the rock.
The gorge marked the upper limit of Alemannic settlement before the 12th century and was a border between bishoprics.
Initially, a difficult footpath bypassed the southern gorge, but around 1230 a wooden bridge and ledge known as the Twärrenbrücke were constructed, enabling passage over the Reuss and opening the St Gotthard Pass.
The Walser settlers likely brought the technical skills for this construction.
The wooden bridge was replaced by a stone bridge in 1595, known as the Devil's Bridge.
Floods destroyed earlier bridges, leading to the construction of tunnels such as the Urnerloch in the early 18th century.
The gorge's infrastructure evolved to meet growing transport demands while preserving its strategic importance.
Place Guide
Devil's Bridge (Teufelsbrücke)1595
The iconic stone bridge spanning the Reuss River in Schöllenen Gorge, famous for its medieval construction and the folklore surrounding its creation. It has been rebuilt several times, with the earliest stone version dating to 1595.
Twärrenbrückec. 1230
A wooden bridge built circa 1230, supported by beams laid across the gorge and attached to the rock face. It was a daring engineering solution for its time, enabling passage over the otherwise impassable gorge.
Urnerloch Tunnel1707-1709
Constructed in the early 18th century, this tunnel was built to protect the road from frequent flood damage by routing traffic through the rock rather than over the vulnerable bridges.
