Graubünden

Graubünden

Graubünden (Romansh: Grischun, Italian: Grigioni, French: Grisons) is the largest and easternmost canton of Switzerland. It is known for its diverse culture, languages, and stunning alpine landscapes. The canton is a popular destination for tourists seeking outdoor activities such as skiing, hiking, and mountain biking.

Geography

Graubünden is located in the eastern part of Switzerland and shares borders with Italy, Austria, and Liechtenstein. The canton is predominantly mountainous, with the Alps covering most of its territory. The highest peak in Graubünden is Piz Bernina, which reaches an elevation of 4,049 meters (13,284 feet).

The region is characterized by its numerous valleys, including the Engadin Valley, which is home to the famous resort town of St. Moritz. The Rhine and Inn rivers have their sources in Graubünden, contributing to the canton’s rich natural resources.

History

Graubünden has a rich history that dates back to prehistoric times. The area was originally inhabited by the Raetians, an ancient Alpine people. During the Roman Empire, the region was incorporated into the province of Raetia.

In the Middle Ages, Graubünden was part of the Holy Roman Empire. The region gained a degree of autonomy in the 15th century with the formation of the Three Leagues, a confederation of local communities. This confederation eventually became part of the Swiss Confederation in 1803.

Languages

Graubünden is unique in Switzerland for its linguistic diversity. It is the only canton where Romansh is an official language, alongside German and Italian. Romansh is a Romance language with several dialects spoken in different parts of the canton.

The linguistic distribution is roughly as follows:

• German: 68%
• Romansh: 15%
• Italian: 10%

Economy

The economy of Graubünden is heavily reliant on tourism, agriculture, and forestry. The canton is famous for its ski resorts, including Davos, which hosts the annual World Economic Forum.

Agriculture in Graubünden focuses on cattle breeding and dairy production, with local specialties such as Bündnerfleisch and Salsiz. The forestry industry is also significant, given the extensive forested areas in the canton.

Culture

Graubünden has a rich cultural heritage, with influences from its diverse linguistic communities. Traditional music, dance, and festivals are an integral part of life in the canton. The region is also known for its distinctive architecture, including the use of stone and wood in building construction.

Transportation

Graubünden is well-connected by road and rail. The Rhaetian Railway is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and offers scenic train routes through the Alps, including the famous Glacier Express and Bernina Express.

Tourism

Tourism is a major industry in Graubünden, attracting visitors year-round. In winter, the canton is a haven for skiing and snowboarding, while in summer, activities such as hiking, mountain biking, and climbing are popular.

Notable tourist destinations include:

• St. Moritz
• Davos
• Arosa
• Flims

External Links

• [Official website of Graubünden](https://www.graubuenden.ch)