Chapel Bridge in Lucerne, Switzerland at Dusk: Landscape Photograph / Fine Art / Print / Canvas / Acrylic / Metal / Wall Decor

Update: as of Feb 2024 this image has been published twice and won four awards. The most prestigious being the UCP "Golden Camera Award for 2023" which was awarded at the same time UCP awarded me with "2023 Photographer of the Year" award!

I’ve always wanted the opportunity to spend some time in Switzerland and photograph its beautiful, quaint towns and amazing mountains. Finally! Lucerne was our first stop and in spite of threatening rain I was unstoppable in my quest to photograph The Chapel Bridge during what I hoped would be a lovely golden hour or sunset - with the town lights just coming on. Known as "Kapellbrücke" in German, it is a famous landmark with history dating back to the 14th century making it one of the oldest wooden covered bridges in Europe. One of the unique features of the Chapel Bridge is the presence of a series of triangular paintings or murals that adorn the interior panels of the roof. These paintings, which were added in the 17th century, depict scenes from Swiss history and mythology, even including the legend of William Tell.

Today, the Chapel Bridge remains a pedestrian crossing and offers stunning views of the old town, the Reuss River, and the Swiss Alps, attracting visitors from around the world. Its unique charm and historical significance make it a must-visit destination in Lucerne, and it continues to be a cherished symbol of Swiss heritage.

Not to be left out of this story, "Jesuitenbirche" stands tall on the banks of River Reuss. The Lucerne Jesuit Church is one of the first of its kind in Switzerland. Constructed in 1667, this church was a symbol of resistance to the Protestant Reformation and is a visual illustration of the catholic faith as understood by the Jesuit Order. Topped by onion domes that were added in 1893 and ornamented with lavish stucco work, this church bears a visage that is just as glorious as its interior.

The afternoon had been bright and breezy but as the evening approached so did the rain. Cold and damp, I struggled to keep my hopes alive for a beautiful sunset photograph of Chapel Bridge. Our travel itenerary was a tight one and this was our last day in Lucerne. I knew exactly how I wanted to capture this scene but today's "golden hour" could be described as the "grey hour", and the setting sun was hidden behind thick clouds.

To say I was disappointed would be a huge understatement, but not one to give up easily, we waited. Deliberately and almost magically the clouds began to break and the remaining sunlight painted delicate magenta and gold colors to the undersides of the clouds. This was my moment, and I jumped into action like a woman possessed. I was quite certain this light would not last long.

It turned out to be a beautiful evening, and we wrapped it up with dinner along the bank of the River Reuss and this lovely view of The Chapel Bridge and Jesuitenkirche. I was thrilled to capture this scene for posterity as the evening sky changed colors right before us. A bottle of fine wine and indulgent Rosti – who could ask for a better last evening in Lucerne?

This classic print would make a great addition to your fine art collection; high quality fine art photography by Lisa Campbell. Available in premium matte photographic paper, stretched canvas, elegant acrylic, or ultra modern aluminum. Details and further descriptions below.