Lucerne

Lucerne is a lovely small city in the middle of Switzerland. We spent four nights there on our way to Basel where we would get on the Viking Kvasir for our cruise down the Rhine to Amsterdam. Not only is it a fun city on its own, it is the center of a recreational area that offers just about any kind of summer or winter activity you could ask for.  

The city straddles the Reuss River where it enters Lake Lucerne in the midst Alps. We were particularly fascinated by the painted buildings. It seems that the thing to do is paint interesting pictures on the sides of buildings to make them more attractive. We certainly approve. Actually, most buildings aren’t painted, but that just makes those that are more interesting.
 

Swans, ducks and gulls have made a home of the river no doubt attracted by the tourists and locals who provide plenty of bread.

 Lucerne sports the most photographed bridge in Switzerland, a covered bridge crossing the bay. The Chapel Bridge was built in the 14^th century as part of the city’s fortifications. Today it still functions as a walking bridge joining the two parts of the city. The small tower, added as a chapel in 1568 today houses a souvenir shop. Inside the bridge itself, 17^th century paintings of scenes from Lucerne’s and Switzerland’s history adorn the ceiling area. At one time 110 of these paintings covered both sides of the triangular boards beneath the roof. Unfortunately, most are gone today including several that were lost in a fire a few years ago. The charred beams still show evidence of the fire.  Still, those that remain add to the interest of a walk across the bridge. 

Lucerne’s other famous site is the Dying Lion of Lucerne. Carved from the rock face, it commemorates the heroism of the Swiss soldiers who died attempting to protect the Tuileries Palace during the French Revolution. Mark Twain called it “the saddest and most moving piece of rock in the world”.

We are quickly learning that Christmas is a major undertaking here in Europe. Streets and buildings are decorated. One building uses its windows as an advent calendar. Each day the shutter opens to reveal a new Christmas scene. Many towns also have their own Christmas market. The shops are not housed in tents; the wood constructions ensures a sturdiness in the winter weather and adds to the Christmas look. Gluwein (milled wine) is served throughout and each town offers its own collectible mug. The presence of food and gluwein make the markets a wonderful strolling area for families along with the tourists.