Rathaus Chur

Chur Town Hall (German: Rathaus) is a late medieval complex in the old town of Chur, Graubünden, often described as Switzerland's oldest town. It is a quick, rewarding stop on any walk through the historic centre.

Where is the town hall?

The address is Poststrasse 33, 7000 Chur. The buildings sit between Reichsgasse and Poststrasse, right in the heart of the old town. From the railway station it is an easy walk towards the centre, passing lanes lined with houses from many centuries. For directions, use the Graubünden app or ask Chur Tourism (churtourismus.ch).

What is its history?

The building took its present form after the city fire of 1464, when it was reconstructed. Over the following centuries it was renovated and extended several times. Until 1554 the same complex also held the Holy Spirit hospital (Spital zum Hl. Geist), so it served purposes well beyond municipal business.

The political backdrop is worth knowing. In 1465 the citizens of Chur drew up a constitution that placed power in the hands of the guilds, and only guild members could hold public office. The town hall was the home of that guild-based system.

What will you see?

The first thing you notice is the irregular ground plan and the sloping roof ridge. The building looks slightly out of joint, and the canton's official tourism page says this comes from its long building history rather than from any design quirk. Inside are cultural assets from several periods, reflecting the building's varied past.

A look at the facade takes a few minutes, so pair the visit with a longer stroll through the old town, which grew from the Middle Ages through the 18th century.

When should you visit?

The old town is pleasant to explore year-round. Opening hours, interior access and guided tours are not listed on the canton's page, so email Chur Tourism ([email protected]) before you go.

Frequently asked questions

Can you go inside Chur Town Hall? The official page gives no hours or visiting rules for the interior. The local tourist office can tell you.

How much does it cost? No public information on admission is available. Viewing the exterior is free.

Why does the building look crooked? Repeated rebuilding after the 1464 fire changed its layout over the centuries, leaving an uneven plan and a sloping roof line.

Is this the same as the Grossratsgebäude? No. The cantonal parliament building is a separate site in Chur.