3 Best Sights in Valais, Switzerland

At the end of the 4th century, the first bishop of the Valais built a sanctuary over Maurice's tomb, and in 515 the Abbaye de Saint-Maurice was founded. Its treasury contains a stellar collection of religious offerings, with precious Romanesque and Gothic objects given in honor of the martyrs. Contemplate both sides of the stunning bronze doors with inscriptions honoring martyrs from around the world. Excavations near the baroque église abbatiale (abbey church) have revealed the foundations of the original building. Audio guides that take you through the history of the abbey are available in English and other languages.

The cathedral is dominated by its Romanesque tower, built in the Lombard style and dating from the 12th century. The rest of the church is late Gothic in style.

Climb the winding pathway behind Pizzeria Molino to the white church on the hill, St. Peter's. Anglican services are still held in the tiny sanctuary established by the British, who ignited a climbing fervor to conquer the Matterhorn and other towering peaks in the region. Take time to pause in the cemetery that holds the graves of those not fortunate enough to return safely and others who remained in this beloved community to live out their lives.