Devil's Bridge
Uri
The Devil's Bridge, or Teufelsbrücke, is an iconic stone bridge located in the Schöllenen Gorge in the canton of Uri, Switzerland. It spans the turbulent Reuss River and has historically been a critical passage on the route over the Gotthard Pass, connecting northern and southern Switzerland. The gorge itself was once considered nearly impassable due to its steep, vertical cliffs and wild waters. The first wooden bridge was constructed around 1230 by the Walser settlers, representing a daring engineering achievement for its time. This was replaced by a stone bridge in 1595, which later fell into disrepair and collapsed in 1888, with its foundations still visible today. The current stone bridge dates from 1830 and is a popular tourist attraction. The bridge's name and fame are tied to numerous local legends involving the Devil, who is said to have helped build the bridge under a pact with locals, only to be tricked and outwitted. Visitors to the site can also explore a scenic circular trail through the gorge, featuring a narrow tunnel carved into the rock beneath a railway bridge, and view the striking "Devil's image" mural painted by Heinrich Danioth in 1950. Nearby stands the Suvorov Monument, commemorating the 1799 battles between Russian and Napoleonic forces in the area. The combination of natural beauty, historical significance, and mythic storytelling makes the Devil's Bridge a unique and captivating destination.
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Astuce: The best time to visit the Devil's Bridge and Schöllenen Gorge is from May to October when the circular trail is accessible. Wear sturdy footwear as paths can be wet and slippery. The site is not wheelchair accessible. Consider arriving early or late in the day to enjoy the 'Devil's image' mural illuminated by warm evening light. The Suvorov Monument is just a short walk from the parking area and is freely accessible. No advance ticket purchase is required for the trail or monument, making spontaneous visits easy.
Faits intéressants
- •The Devil's Bridge is part of a broader European tradition of 'Devil's Bridges', which are often associated with legends involving the Devil's involvement in their construction.
- •The first wooden bridge over the Schöllenen Gorge was built by Walser settlers around 1230, marking a significant development in Swiss alpine transit routes.
- •The Suvorov Monument near the bridge commemorates the 1799 battles between Russian troops and Napoleon's army in the region.
- •The 'Devil's image' mural painted in 1950 by Heinrich Danioth was controversial at the time due to its expressionist style but is now a recognized symbol of the gorge.
- •The original stone bridge's foundations from 1595 remain visible on the northern side of the river.
- •The Schöllenen Gorge was once considered nearly impassable, making the bridge a vital engineering and strategic achievement.
Histoire
The Schöllenen Gorge was historically a formidable natural barrier on the route over the Gotthard Pass.
Around 1200, Walser settlers engineered the first passage by building a precarious wooden path with multiple bridges.
The first wooden bridge over the Reuss River was built circa 1230.
It was replaced by a stone bridge in 1595, which collapsed in 1888.
Due to repeated flood damage, an alternative passage was sought, leading to the construction of the Urnerloch tunnel in the early 18th century.
The current stone bridge dates from 1830 and remains a vital historical landmark.
The site also witnessed significant military action during the 1799 campaign when Russian troops under General Suvorov fought Napoleon's forces, commemorated by a monument erected in 1898.
Guide du lieu
Devil's Bridge (Teufelsbrücke)1830
The current stone bridge built in 1830 spans the Schöllenen Gorge over the Reuss River. It is a key historical and architectural landmark, showcasing impressive 19th-century engineering and offering dramatic views of the gorge below.
Schöllenen Gorge Circular Trail
A 30-minute walking route starting at the Teufelsbrücke restaurant that crosses the historic bridge and follows a path through the steep gorge. The trail includes a narrow tunnel carved into the rock beneath a railway bridge and offers scenic views of the wild river and cliffs.
Suvorov Monument1898
Carved directly into the rock face, this monument commemorates the 1799 battles fought by Russian troops under General Suvorov against Napoleon's forces. It features an inscription and a cross honoring the fallen soldiers.
Devil's Image Mural1950
An expressionist mural painted in 1950 by local Uri artist Heinrich Danioth, depicting the Devil and referencing the local folklore about the bridge's construction. It is situated on the rock face above the motorway bridge near the parking area.
Contact
Téléphone: 041 888 71 00