Kapellbrücke

The Kapellbrücke ("Chapel Bridge" in German), a 650 foot long bridge crossing the Reuss River, near Lucerne in Switzerland, is the oldest wooden bridge in Europe, and one of Switzerland's biggest attractions. The covered bridge, constructed in 1333, was designed to help protect the town of Lucerne against attack. Adjoining the bridge is the 140 feet tall Wasserturm (Water Tower), an octagonal tower made from brick, which has served as a prison, torture chamber, watchtower and treasury. Today the tower, which is part of the city wall, is used as the Guild Hall of the Artillery Association. The tower and the bridge are Lucerne's trademark and form the most photographed monument in the country.