The East Switzerland region (Ostschweiz), located in eastern Switzerland, is rich in picturesque landscapes and historical sites. For urban exploration enthusiasts, this region offers many fascinating abandoned locations. Whether you're drawn to deserted industrial buildings or forgotten infrastructure, here's a selection of the five best urban exploration sites you absolutely must visit in East Switzerland.
1. The Abandoned Textile Factory of St. Gallen
St. Gallen, once a major center of the textile industry in Switzerland, is home to several abandoned factories. Among them, a former textile mill is of particular interest to urban explorers. Closed for several decades, this factory is a striking reminder of the region's prosperous era of textile production.
Site Features
- Infrastructure: Production halls, machine rooms, warehouses.
- State of disrepair: Advanced, with some structures partially collapsed.
- Access: Moderate, requiring a certain degree of discretion.
2. The Frauenfeld Military Bunker
The abandoned military bunker near Frauenfeld is a fascinating urban exploration site, particularly 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 Sanatorium of Davos
In Davos, famous for its ski resorts, lies an old, abandoned sanatorium . This place, once used to treat tuberculosis patients, is now deserted, offering 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 Disused Railway Warehouse of Rorschach
Located in Rorschach, this disused railway warehouse is a popular urban exploration site thanks to its vast spaces and old railway infrastructure. The railway tracks, overgrown with vegetation, offer a striking contrast between the old and the new.
Site Features
- Infrastructure: Hangars, repair workshops, railway lines.
- 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, contains deserted areas that have become a fascinating urban exploration site. The old wooden houses and deserted alleyways offer 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 being in ruins.
- Access: Easy, but respecting private property.
Conclusion
Eastern Switzerland is a region rich in urban exploration sites, offering a variety of locations for urban explorers. Whether you're drawn to industrial ruins, military bunkers, or abandoned villages, these must-see sites promise an unforgettable immersion in history and mystery. During your explorations, it's essential to respect these places and preserve them for future generations.
