Hospital St. Jakob at Birs

Hospital St. Jakob at Birs is a settlement of stone buildings constructed along the Birs River to isolate and treat the sick. The site contains several structures dating from medieval times that retain their original form and layout.

The facility was established in the 13th century and initially functioned as a leprosarium for people with leprosy. Over time it adapted to serve patients suffering from other contagious diseases.

The chapel on the grounds served as a shared space where patients and staff found solace through prayer. This blending of spiritual care with medical treatment shows how faith shaped medieval approaches to healing.

The site sits directly along the Birs River and is accessible via local pathways. It is best visited during drier periods, as the ground can become difficult to navigate when water levels are high.

The grounds served as the setting for the Battle of St. Jakob in 1444, where Swiss fighters made a determined stand against French forces inside the buildings. This dramatic event remains deeply rooted in the area's past.