Luzern, glimpse into the past

You are looking to the south on the old "port" of Luzern town, where one of the first paddle steamers has landed. Behind the boat landing is the "Zurgilgenhaus", with its round tower. It was rebuilt in 1507-1510, after the original one was prey to a devastating fire in 1495. The history of the "zur Gilgen" family lists all houseowners and guests until today. Among the famous guests were couriers of the Pope, Victor Hugo, the defense council of the city of Luzern during war times, and many more.

The aquarel of Ulrich Gutersohn shows, to the left of the round tower, the Chapel bridge, the pale theater house, the water tower of Luzern, and the "Hotel Du Lac" which flies the Swiss flag. The background is filled by the majestic Mount Pilatus, with his "scarf" or "sword" of clouds, the sign of coming rain.

About 600 years after Luzern joined the Helvetic Confederation (CH), the Chapel bridge, as it is known today, extended to the church of St. Leodegar, which is seen on the left side of this beautiful woodcut. While a group of passengers pray a few "Ave Marias" on the way of the Cross, two young ladies listen to the heroic and incredible stories of three soldiers who have just come back from fighting in the French army in Italy. Even today the traveler has a pleasant view from the Kapuzinerweg over the roofs and towers of the medieval city, the lake and the distant mountains. And still there are processions. And still there are some young ladies around waiting to hear some incredible stories.