Vernissage «GR 1925» – 100 Jahre Automobil in Graubünden

A special exhibition on the history of motorisation in the Alps | Entrance free.

EXPERIENCE | VERNISSAGE

History was made in Graubünden in 1925: motorisation began in the Alps with the lifting of the car ban. A century later, we look back on this decisive turning point, which not only changed technology and transport, but also society, tourism and lifestyle. The Fotostiftung Graubünden, together with the Literaturhaus Graubünden, invites you to a special anniversary exhibition in the Kulturplatz Davos. Under the title "GR 1925", the show tells the story of the beginnings of automobilisation in Graubünden – a time when scepticism, amazement and enthusiasm were close together.



A photographic journey through time



Historical photographs document how the first motor vehicles rumbled over winding mountain roads, how post buses conquered mountain passes and elegant limousines brought wealthy guests to the hotels. They also show the challenges associated with the new means of transport: technical innovations, political debates and the development of an infrastructure that paved the way to modernity.

Accompanying texts deepen these insights and bring the mood of those years to life – a time in which the car not only promised progress, but also triggered fears of noise, dust and exhaust fumes as well as a supposed threat to alpine tranquility.



The car as a symbol



While there was initially a bitter dispute about the benefits and harms, the automobile soon developed into a symbol of freedom, mobility and community experiences. It opened up new perspectives on travel, shaped tourism in the canton and changed people's everyday lives.



The vernissage with writing workshop will take place on 03 October 2025, 6:30 pm.

Price: Free admission

Cast
Photo credits: Klosters-Wolfgang hill climb (28-30 August 1959), zVg 1959