Graubünden

History

Graubünden, located in the southeastern Alps of Switzerland, has a complex history shaped by its mountainous terrain and strategic position. The region was originally inhabited by Rhaetic peoples and later came under Roman control before becoming part of various medieval territories. In the 15th and 16th centuries, it emerged as a relatively independent federation of three leagues before joining the Swiss Confederation in 1815. The region's isolated valleys and difficult terrain helped preserve distinct local cultures and traditions that persist to this day.

Culture

Graubünden is renowned for its stunning Alpine landscapes, charming villages with traditional stone architecture, and world-class ski resorts like St. Moritz and Davos. The region maintains strong local traditions including distinctive folk customs, crafts, and a celebrated culinary heritage featuring hearty mountain fare such as Capuns and Pizzoccheri. What sets Graubünden apart is its remarkable cultural and linguistic diversity, with multiple languages and dialects coexisting within its valleys, creating a patchwork of distinct identities and traditions.

Language

Graubünden is unique in Switzerland for being trilingual, with German, Italian, and Romansh spoken in different areas, though German dominates overall. Romansh, an ancient Romance language spoken in parts of the region, is experiencing a cultural revival and remains an important symbol of local identity, with common greetings including "Allegra" and "Tschüss."

Best time to visit

Summer is perfect for hiking in this mountainous region, while winter offers excellent skiing in St. Moritz and other resorts.

Places to visit

Where to eat