History and Significance of the Devil's Bridge

The Devil's Bridge, or Teufelsbrücke, is located in the Schöllenen Gorge, near Andermatt in the canton of Uri. According to legend, the first bridge was built in the 13th century to cross the dangerous and impassable gorge. The crossing was so difficult that locals believed only the devil himself could build such a bridge. Thus arose the famous legend that the devil built the bridge in exchange for the soul of the first person to cross it. However, locals outwitted the devil by sending a goat across the bridge, whereupon the devil, in anger, tried to throw a rock at the bridge but missed. This rock, the Teufelsstein, still lies near the bridge today.

The current bridge is a stone arch bridge built in 1830, replacing the earlier wooden bridge. It is a significant engineering structure and an important symbol of the region, reflecting the history and ingenuity of the people in this challenging landscape.

Sights and attractions

In addition to the fascinating Devil's Bridge itself, there are numerous things to see and do in the area:

Schöllenen Gorge: The dramatic gorge through which the Reuss River flows offers impressive views and photo opportunities. The raw beauty of nature draws visitors from all over the world.

Devil's Stone: The famous boulder supposedly thrown by the devil is a popular photo spot and a symbol of local legend.

Suvorov Memorial: A monument honoring Russian general Alexander Suvorov, who crossed the bridge in 1799 during his campaign in the Napoleonic Wars, it commemorates the historical events that took place here.

Gotthard Museum: Located in Andermatt, the museum offers insight into the history of the Gotthard Pass, the Devil's Bridge and regional culture.

Hiking trails and outdoor activities

The Devil's Bridge region offers numerous hiking trails and outdoor activities:

Devil's Bridge Hike: An easy hike from Andermatt to the Devil's Bridge along the historic mule tracks offers scenic views and is ideal for families.

Four Springs Trail: A challenging, multi-day hiking trail that connects the sources of the four major rivers Rhine, Reuss, Ticino and Rhone. A section of the trail leads through the Schöllenen Gorge and past the Devil's Bridge.

Gotthard Pass Hikes: Various hiking trails lead through the stunning scenery of the Gotthard Massif, with opportunities for mountaineering, trekking and nature observation.

Cycling and Mountain Biking: The region also offers excellent trails for cyclists and mountain bikers, with routes that pass through picturesque villages and alpine landscapes.

Visitor information

The Devil's Bridge is easily accessible from Andermatt, either on foot, by bike or by car. The best time to visit is from spring to autumn, when the hiking trails are free of snow and the weather conditions are ideal.

Conclusion

The Devil's Bridge in Andermatt is a fascinating place that combines history, legends and natural beauty. Whether you are a history buff, a hiker or simply a nature lover, the Devil's Bridge and its surroundings have something for everyone. Plan your visit and experience the magic and adventure that this unique place has to offer.

Thank you for visiting our blog. We hope you have been inspired to discover the Devil's Bridge and the many other treasures of the region for yourself. Until next time when we will share more fascinating places and stories with you!