[Pauly]

9 January 2021 at 9:49:49 #825760

Hello from Holland!

My best wishes for a happy and healthy 2021 and a huge thank-you to the moderating team for keeping this website “in the air”! I hope we will soon be able to visit Switzerland again…

A few month ago Arno put out on Facebook the question about our favourite places in Switzerland – I answered “Basel and Brig”, but my answer on his question “why” has somehow gotten “snowed under”… I love Brig because of its southern charm and history as well as its central position for hikes and other adventures. I have been there several times already. I would like to draw the forum members’ attention to its neighbour-town Naters, on the east bank of the river Rhone: it has a long history, but also a well-preserved old centre with wonderful Walser houses and a church dating back to the 12th century (St. Mauritius Church) – both worth a visit! (pictures 1 and 2).

Another interesting site nearby is the defensive wall dating back to the 14th century and situated between Brig and Brigerbad (I really liked the wellness!) near the village of Gamsen: it has not only served as a barrier against flooding by the mountain stream Gamsa, but also against enemy attacks from the lower parts of the Rhone Valley. The wall has been restored and well-documented (unfortunately only in German). The “Gamser Landmauer” is listed in the Swiss inventory for historical buildings and sights of national importance and it is unique in its kind (pictures 3 and 4).

Best regards!

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[Anna]

Reply 1 of 2 • 9 January 2021 at 10:51:21 #934571

Hi Pauly,

Thanks for that useful information.

Happy new year and regards,

Anna

[Arno]

Reply 2 of 2 • 9 January 2021 at 16:07:59 #934572

Thank you Pauly. I didn’t know about the town center in Naters. That’s certainly something to keep in mind and add to my (long) wish list!