Lucerne

This is a city in central Switzerland that spreads along both shores of Lake Lucerne and the River Reuss. The Chapel Bridge from the 14th century crosses the river with a covered wooden structure while the old town preserves narrow lanes with painted facades and guild houses.

The settlement began as a fishing village and received town rights in the 13th century under Habsburg rule. Joining the Swiss Confederation in 1332 shaped its political identity and role as a Catholic center during the Reformation.

The old town retains its medieval layout with daily markets on Weinmarkt square and traditional restaurants along the lanes where residents and visitors enjoy regional dishes. During Fasnacht the entire center transforms into a carnival hub with costumed groups parading through the historic streets and upholding local customs.

The main train station sits on the southern shore and offers direct access to the old town via the lakeside promenade within a few walking minutes. Boat connections from the station pier run to various points on the lake while footpaths along the waterfront lead to the center and historic bridges.

The Glacier Garden displays beneath a modern glass dome glacial potholes and polished rock surfaces that formed roughly 20,000 years ago when ice covered what is now the urban area. These geological formations sit directly next to a Victorian mirror maze from the 19th century that visitors can still walk through today.