Viamala

Viamala: The "Bad Path" of Switzerland

Viamala, a name derived from Romansh meaning "bad path," is a dramatic and historically significant narrow gorge situated in the canton of Graubünden, Switzerland. Carved by the Hinterrhein river, it lies between the communities of Zillis-Reischen and Thusis. For centuries, Viamala presented one of the most formidable natural obstacles for travelers attempting to cross the Alps via the Splügen and San Bernardino mountain passes.

A Passage Through Time

Evidence suggests a pathway through Viamala existed as far back as Roman antiquity. The Romans ingeniously created passages by cutting rock galleries into the gorge's left walls and constructing a wooden bridge to cross the Hinterrhein. This early route facilitated foot and bridle traffic, and possibly wagons.

During the medieval period, the passage deteriorated, but a pivotal rebuilding effort occurred in 1473. Municipalities and transport cooperatives undertook renovations, incorporating the Roman sections and constructing the first stone bridge, the Punt da Tgiern. This new path was designed with a notable level of technical sophistication, intended to accommodate horses and sleds.

The modern era brought about substantial engineering advancements to tame the "bad path." Between 1738 and 1739, Christian Wildener built bridges that improved upon the Roman route. Later, from 1818 to 1821, state engineer Richard La Nicca created a completely new road featuring tunnels and connecting existing bridges. The 20th century saw further developments, including the construction of the A13 expressway with long tunnels and the impressive Great Viamala Bridge, designed by Christian Menn, which largely bypasses the most challenging sections of the gorge. More recently, pedestrian bridges like the Traversinersteg have been installed, offering access to visible remains of the ancient Roman path.