Urnäsch, Protected village and municipality in Appenzell Ausserrhoden, Switzerland
Urnäsch is a municipality in the canton of Appenzell Ausserrhoden in eastern Switzerland, with a traditional townscape that is protected for its heritage value. The village sits at around 830 meters (2,720 feet) above sea level and is made up of narrow streets lined with timber-framed houses, small shops, and family homes.
Urnäsch appears in written records as far back as 1268, when the area was part of lands controlled by the monastery of St. Gallen. Over the following centuries it grew into a self-governed rural community, shaping the traditions and building styles that are still visible today.
Urnäsch is best known for the Silvesterchlausen, a custom where groups of people wearing masks and elaborate costumes walk through the streets singing to welcome the new year. This tradition follows the old Julian calendar and takes place on January 13, drawing visitors from across the region each year.
Urnäsch works well as a base for walking in the surrounding countryside, with trails leading toward the Alpstein range in various directions. The village is easy to reach from nearby towns such as Herisau and St. Gallen, which makes it straightforward to combine with visits to other places in the region.
The Silvesterchlausen celebration in Urnäsch actually happens twice each year: once on December 31 and again on January 13, which is New Year's Eve according to the old Julian calendar still used in some communities here. This double new year is rare even within Switzerland and gives the village a rhythm that sets it apart from nearby towns.
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