Cazis: Churches, Monastery and Nature

Cazis in Graubünden belongs to the Viamala region. The valley municipality lies west of the Hinterrhein on the Heinzenberg, about three kilometres north of Thusis. Church and monastery history, a nature reserve and individual leisure activities each offer a different focus. If you are looking for a hotel in Cazis, you can plan your trip around whether you are particularly interested in architectural history, the landscape or a specific activity.

Location, Getting There and Circular Route

Cazis can be reached by train or PostAuto. The Cazis Mitte circular route starts at Cazis railway station. It is 29.1 kilometres long, with 576 metres of ascent and 576 metres of descent. The details about the starting point, distance and elevation gain give you concrete figures to help with planning if you would like to include this circular route.

The region’s transport history is also part of the picture: historically, Cazis is linked to the Viamala route and transit traffic over the Splügen Pass. The road over the pass was built between 1818 and 1823. The history of transport routes thus complements the history of churches and monasteries as another theme of the region.

Churches and Architectural History

The Steinkirche Cazis makes a distinctive architectural statement. It was built using the shotcrete technique, a construction method used predominantly for tunnel building in the region. Its three elements are reminiscent of rocks shaped by glaciers. The interior architecture also shapes the impression: it conveys both a sense of security and freedom. The church is therefore notable both for its unusual construction technique and for the effect of its form.

The Pfrundhaus offers a different perspective on Cazis’ architectural history. Its Late Gothic parlour has been dated to around 1454 and is considered the oldest known parlour in Graubünden. Together with the Steinkirche, it gives the architectural spectrum a range extending from a striking shotcrete building to a Late Gothic interior from the 15th century.

St. Martin’s Church was the first valley church in Domleschg. Archaeological interpretation links its origins to an Iron Age sun sanctuary. The Iron Age is dated here from 800 BC. The church’s established place in Domleschg and the possible interpretation of its earliest origins are therefore distinct aspects of its history.

Monastery History and Courses

The Dominican convent in Cazis looks back on 1,300 years as a place of faith and contemplation. It was founded around 700 by Bishop Victor II of Chur and is considered the first women’s monastery in Churrätien. Its founding period and this historical distinction give the convent a special place in the history of the town.

The convent also offers a wide selection of courses. If you are interested in a particular course, check the current programme before your visit, as the offerings may change.

Nature and Leisure

The Munté Süd cantonal nature reserve lies on the plain below Cazis, between St. Martinwald and Rodels railway station. It borders the Rheindammweg. The Munté nature reserve provides migratory birds with a resting and feeding place. A marked hiking trail runs through the protected area, which is also used for local recreation. Please stay on the marked trail.

Minigolf Beverin adds a specific leisure activity to the cultural and landscape attractions. The 18-hole course is located on the grounds of the Beverin Clinic in a quiet, park-like setting. As a professional minigolf course, it gives ambitious players the opportunity to train or take part in competitions.

Discover More Destinations

Sils Im Domleschg, Fardün, Tschappina, Nufenen, Trans, Sarn, Paspels, Sufers

For the overarching travel overview: Hinterrhein.