Zentralschweiz, or Central Switzerland, is a region full of charm with its majestic mountains and picturesque lakes. Beyond its natural beauty, it is also home to fascinating urbex sites for urban exploration enthusiasts. These abandoned places, often hidden from the general public, offer a unique immersion into the industrial and military history of the region. Here is a selection of the five best must-see urbex sites to discover in Zentralschweiz.
1. The Abandoned Hospital in Lucerne
Lucerne, known for its medieval architecture, hides an old abandoned hospital that attracts many urban explorers. Closed for decades, this site offers a mysterious and fascinating setting, with disused operating rooms, dark corridors, and medical equipment left behind.
Site Features
- Infrastructure: Treatment rooms, bedrooms, medical equipment.
- State of Disrepair: Moderate, with some areas still intact.
- Access: Moderate, requiring discretion.
2. Seelisberg Military Fort
Nestled in the mountains, the abandoned military fort of Seelisberg is an iconic urbex site in Zentralschweiz. Built during World War II, this now abandoned fort offers breathtaking views of Lake Lucerne and a dive into Swiss military history.
Site Features
- Infrastructure: Bunkers, tunnels, barracks.
- State of Disrepair: Good, with solid structures but overgrown with vegetation.
- Access: Difficult, with some areas inaccessible without proper equipment.
3. The Abandoned Hydroelectric Power Plant in Zug
Zug, a modern and dynamic city, is home to a former hydroelectric plant that has been abandoned. This industrial site stands in stark contrast to the rest of the city, with its rusting turbines and deserted control rooms serving as a reminder of the importance of industry in regional development.
Site Features
- Infrastructure: Turbines, control rooms, reservoirs.
- State of Disrepair: Moderate, with some equipment still present.
- Access: Relatively easy, but some areas are dangerous.
4. The Abandoned Railway Station of Flüelen
Located in Flüelen, this former railway station is a unique urbex site, representing a remnant of a time when the train was the main means of transport in the region. Today, the empty platforms and abandoned buildings offer a fascinating playground for history and photography enthusiasts.
Site Features
- Infrastructure: Platforms, station buildings, railway tracks.
- State of Disrepair: Good, but overrun by nature.
- Access: Easy, but some areas are monitored.
5. The Abandoned Hotel of Rigi Kulm
Perched atop Mount Rigi, the abandoned Rigi Kulm Hotel is an iconic urbex location, offering spectacular views of the Swiss Alps. Closed for years, this mountain hotel once welcomed travelers seeking tranquility and nature, but now lies abandoned.
Site Features
- Facilities: Rooms, restaurant, terraces.
- State of Disrepair: Advanced, with partially collapsed sections.
- Access: Difficult, requiring a hike to reach the site.
Conclusion
Zentralschweiz is a region that, in addition to its breathtaking landscapes, is full of fascinating urbex sites. From the old hospital in Lucerne to the military bunkers hidden in the mountains, each place tells a unique story. For urban exploration enthusiasts, these sites offer a perfect combination of mystery, history, and photography. However, it is essential to respect these places during your explorations, making sure not to damage anything and to preserve their unique atmosphere for future explorers.
