The History of Bever

Where the name Bever comes from is not known. Perhaps from "beaver", as linguists and name researchers suspect? In any case, this interpretation would fit perfectly with the intact nature that can be discovered around the small mountain community. And also with the village itself, which, like the shy rodent, is a little hidden, as the main road curves around the town. Good thing, because in this way, the valuable historical traces will probably be preserved for locals and guests for a long time to come. For example, the historic palazzi with their beautiful rooms and vaults or the rustic Engadine houses with their wide gable roofs, small, deep windows and wide gates. And not to forget the 14th century St. James' Church of San Giachem, whose Gothic wall paintings are considered unique.

The beautiful gardens, which testify to the aesthetic sense and cultural awareness of the well-traveled, wealthy families, provide a fitting setting for this enchanted village image. If you would like to know more about the village, which developed from the poorhouse of the Upper Engadine in the 20th century into a highly respected environmental pioneer community in Graubünden, the best thing to do is to take part in the free village tour or browse through "Bever.

The history of an Engadine village" (available from the Bever municipal office and the Bever Tourist Information).