Architectural Landmarks in Val Poschiavo

Val Poschiavo is a mountain valley in the Italian-speaking region of Grisons. Accessible via the 2,328-meter-high Bernina Pass, the valley descends approximately 1,800 meters through the municipalities of Poschiavo and Brusio, eventually reaching Tirano in Italy. The main town, Poschiavo, has a population of about 3,500 and is renowned for its well-preserved architectural heritage. In 2025, Poschiavo was honored with the prestigious Wakker Prize by the Swiss Heritage Society, recognizing its exemplary efforts in preserving and revitalizing its historical urban fabric. Poschiavo is particularly noted for its elegant Renaissance-style palazzi, built in the 19th century by locals who had amassed wealth abroad, often in trade or gastronomy. These stately buildings, with their harmonious proportions and intricate details, reflect the town’s cultural and economic history. Highlights include Palazzo de Bassus-Mengotti, now home to the Val Poschiavo Museum, and the Church of San Vittore, a blend of medieval and Baroque architecture. The valley also features the iconic circular Brusio Spiral Viaduct, a masterpiece of engineering on the UNESCO-listed Rhaetian Railway, connecting the natural and architectural beauty of this unique region.