The Ostschweiz region in eastern Switzerland is rich in scenic landscapes and historical sites. For urbex (urban exploration) enthusiasts, this region offers many fascinating abandoned places. Whether you are drawn to deserted industrial buildings or forgotten infrastructure, here is a selection of the top five must-see urbex sites to explore in Ostschweiz.
1. The Abandoned Textile Factory in St. Gallen
St. Gallen, once an important centre of the textile industry in Switzerland, is home to several disused factories. Among them, a former textile factory is particularly attractive to urbex enthusiasts. Closed for several decades, this factory is a striking reminder of the prosperous times of textile production in the region.
Site Features
- Infrastructure: Production halls, machine rooms, warehouses.
- State of Disrepair: Advanced, with some structures partially collapsed.
- Access: Moderate, requiring some discretion.
2. The Military Bunker of Frauenfeld
The abandoned military bunker near Frauenfeld is a fascinating urbex site, especially for those interested in military history. Built during the Cold War, this now abandoned bunker offers a unique insight into Switzerland's defensive strategy at that time.
Site Features
- Infrastructure: Control rooms, dormitories, underground tunnels.
- State of Disrepair: Relatively good, but dark and damp.
- Access: Restricted, some areas are monitored.
3. The Abandoned Davos Sanatorium
In Davos, famous for its ski resorts, there is a former abandoned sanatorium . This place, once used to treat tuberculosis patients, is now deserted, providing an ideal setting for an urban exploration marked by calm and melancholy.
Site Features
- Infrastructure: Rooms, treatment rooms, common areas.
- State of Disrepair: Advanced, with collapsed sections.
- Access: Moderate, requiring caution.
4. The Abandoned Rorschach Railway Warehouse
Located in Rorschach, this disused railway warehouse is a popular urbex location for its vast spaces and old railway infrastructure. The railway tracks, overgrown with vegetation, offer a striking contrast between old and new.
Site Features
- Infrastructure: Hangars, repair workshops, railway tracks.
- State of Disrepair: Moderate, with some areas still accessible.
- Access: Relatively easy, but requires discretion.
5. The Abandoned Village of Valendas
The abandoned village of Valendas , although partially inhabited, has deserted areas that have become a fascinating urbex location. The old wooden houses and deserted alleys provide an ideal setting for those looking to explore a piece of alpine history.
Site Features
- Infrastructure: Traditional houses, old farms, church.
- State of Disrepair: Variable, with some houses in ruins.
- Access: Easy, but respecting private property.
Conclusion
Ostschweiz is a region rich in urbex sites, offering a variety of places for urban explorers. Whether you are attracted by industrial remains, military bunkers, or abandoned villages, these must-see sites promise you an unforgettable dive into history and mystery. During your explorations, it is essential to respect these places and preserve them for future generations.
