Graubuenden
The largest canton in Switzerland, Graubuenden, occupies much of the south-eastern part of the country and borders Italy, Austria and Liechtenstein. Its territory comprises part of the Central Alps, with some of the highest peaks in Europe. The region is known as a leading winter sports destination, abounding in trendy, expensive resorts like St. Moritz and Davos. The latter is also a political centre of world importance. Graubuenden is equally attractive in summer and winter, especially for skiers, nature lovers and hikers. In addition, the canton functions as a bridge between Italy and Central and Western Europe, since busy roads and railways cross it. The unique Rhaetian Railway, a remarkable achievement of railway engineering which links some extremely remote places, deserves special mention. In cultural terms, the canton is extraordinary, for this is the only area in which the old Romance languages are still spoken. The administrative centre of Chur, with its more than 5,000 years of history, claims to be the oldest settlement on Swiss territory.