Wengen, Car-free mountain village in Lauterbrunnen, Switzerland
Wengen is a car-free mountain village perched on a terrace in the Bernese Alps, surrounded by meadows and rocky peaks. The houses display typical Alpine architecture and connect through wide paths and trails.
The settlement began as a farming community high in the mountains and transformed into a tourist village after the railway arrived in the 1890s. This shift brought new opportunities and people to the isolated location.
The village brings together people from different religious backgrounds, each with their own place of worship that shapes how the community gathers and celebrates. These buildings stand as landmarks that visitors notice while walking through the streets.
You can reach the village only by mountain railway from the valley below or on foot, as cars are completely banned. Comfortable walking shoes and planning for the journey uphill are necessary.
A world-famous downhill ski race has been held here since 1930, making it one of the longest and most challenging courses on the circuit. During race season, the quiet village transforms into a hub of sporting excitement.
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