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Davos is a mountain resort, today known as a center of international politics and economics, thanks to the World Economic Forum.
Interestingly, its history begins with a small village in the Swiss Alps, where life was measured and calm. In this article, we will explore the key moments in the development of the region and tourism in Switzerland.
A small village in the Alps
The history of Davos begins in the 13th century, when this place was mentioned in documents as a small settlement, part of the county of Castel. For centuries, Davos remained an insignificant village, where the main activities of the inhabitants were cattle breeding and agriculture.
In the 19th century, Davos became famous for its healing springs. In the 1860s, doctors began to recommend the area for the treatment of tuberculosis, which led to an increase in the number of patients and investment in the development of the resort. The opening of the first sanatoriums, such as the “Davos Clinic” in 1860, marked the beginning of the transformation of the village into a medical center.
By the end of the 19th century, Davos was attracting more and more holidaymakers, new hotels were opened and ski resorts began to develop. This was a golden age for Davos, as the city became especially popular among the European aristocracy.
The emergence of the spa movement
After the opening of medical centers, Davos flourished. The spa movement was proactively supported by local authorities, who invested in infrastructure, including the construction of hotels, hotel complexes and ski lifts, which helped to attract not only patients but also tourists.
By the end of the 19th century, Davos had become popular among the European aristocracy and wealthy holidaymakers, which led to its transformation into a modern spa center.
Thus, the second half of the 19th century was a turning point for Davos: it transformed from a small village into an international resort, famous not only for its healing properties, but also for its beautiful nature, which later contributed to its development as a winter sports city and a place for international conferences.
Architectural Heritage and Historical Monuments of Davos
Davos has a rich architectural heritage that reflects its development as a spa and transport hub. Some of the first buildings built in Davos were sanatoriums offering relief from lung diseases. The architecture of these buildings often combined elements of traditional Swiss style with more modern features, allowing them to fit harmoniously into the Alpine landscape.
Significant buildings include:
1. Kronenhof Sanatorium – built at the beginning of the century, it has become one of the most famous health resorts and a symbol of Davos as a spa.
2. Hotel Schatzalp – its unique architectural style and high altitude location have attracted tourists since the end of the 19th century.
3. St. Catherine’s Church – built at the beginning of the 20th century, this church is somewhat reminiscent of traditional Swiss buildings and has a picturesque interior.
Davos also preserves historical monuments such as old timber-framed houses and granite buildings that are reminiscent of its past. These monuments highlight the unique atmosphere of the city and attract the attention of both locals and tourists.
Davos in the 20th century: a global conference center
Since 1971, Davos has become famous thanks to the World Economic Forum (WEF), which was first held in the city. This event attracted attention to Davos as a place for international meetings and discussions on current business, economic and political issues.
Holding conferences in Davos significantly changed its image: from a quiet mountain resort, it was transformed into a dynamic center of global discussions.
Infrastructure developed around the WEF, including conference halls, hotels and transport links, making Davos a convenient place to hold world-class events. Since then, various international summits, forums and conferences have been held here, bringing together leaders of states, businessmen and scientists.
As a result, Davos has become not only a center of sports and recreation, but also an important player in the global political and economic field.