SILS LIVE — 17:20
The traditional Engadine houses in Sils create the unique village scenery. But they also have fascinating stories to tell. Not only do they provide an insight into times gone by, but also into the traditional Sils crafts which are still very much alive today.
«A roof made of stone slates from Val Fex lasts forever. A modern tiled roof has to be replaced every 20 years.» Few people know as much about the stone roofs of traditional Engadine houses in Sils and the Val Fex as Claudio Meuli. His grandfather worked in the Cheva Plattas da Fex quarry where the much sought-after mica slates come from. Today, Claudio Meuli is the third generation of his family to run a roofing business in Sils. «It’s a labour of love. As craftsmen we not only conserve traditional building materials but also preserve time-honoured knowledge. We’re the guardians of traditions going back centuries.»
Traditional crafts in Sils are not consigned to history, they also have a future. They are a prime example of how modern sustainability can be achieved. Reusing existing materials is a matter of routine for Claudio Meuli, as this approach has always been used in construction in Engadine: «No slate slab is ever discarded. We turn old roofs into new ones – or sometimes into elegant floors for kitchens or hallways.» The durability of this method is highlighted by the construction dates of the impressive houses found along Via da Marias and in the Val Fex. Some even pre-date the Sils village by-laws first laid down in 1591.
«Stone roofs are works of art. You start at the bottom with the large stones whereas the smaller ones are used at the top of the ridge.»
Over the centuries, typical Engadine houses have developed from simple dwellings accommodating people and cattle into splendid farmhouses. The builders had to bring everything under one roof – the stables, hayloft, manure storage and living space for several generations. Work was carried out in the ‘Sulèr’, a large, windowless room on the ground floor. This was a type of inner courtyard adjoining the stable barn (Talvo).
The occupants’ quarters included the living room (Stüva) and the vaulted kitchen (Chadafö); the only heated rooms on the ground floor. The brick-built parlour stove and the tiled stove were not the only sources of heat as warmth was also provided by the cattle and the manure storage facility in the basement. This would be classed as highly energy efficient nowadays. Natural light was also used very efficiently. The sides of each of the small window bays were angled so as to allow as much light into the building as possible.
What people today find so fascinating about traditional Engadine houses is not just their functional aspects but also their great beauty. The façades were adorned by distinctive sgrafitto ornamental decoration. The windows and doors were also embellished with elaborate forged metal decorations. Inside, simple wood carvings create a homely atmosphere. «As craftsmen we bring together function and beauty,» explains Andri Clalüna, a carpentry apprentice from Sils.
Andri is learning his father’s trade. And like his father, he has already made several Engadine chests. «That’s also something we learn at vocational college, which helps to preserve our local style.» Part of this style is a room called the ‘Stüva’ – a parlour lined with calming Swiss pine and furnished with Engadine wooden furniture. «The pine we use – freshly cut at a particular time in the lunar calendar – is sourced locally. Old wood is reused whenever possible so that our craft creates a connection between past and present.»
«Swiss pine is precious. Old wood is upgraded and reused. Some pieces are up to 300 years old.»
About our forests
Forest ranger Corado Niggli is full of fascinating information about the larch and the Sils forest (in german).
HGV Sils / Silvaplana
The chamber represents the interests of trade and commerce in Sils and Silvaplana. A business directory sorted by industry is available in the Mitglieder (Members) section.
Houses full of history in Sils
As you walk from the village square in Sils Maria to Sils Baselgia, you’ll pass through a century of cultural history.
Stay in an Engadine house
Enjoy an overnight stay in one of our traditional houses in Sils.
More stories about Sils
Spring skiing
When it snows
Horse-drawn carriage