80 years of chocolate coins, or why the Sils plain is still what it is.

There are many reasons why a landscape remains as it is and doesn't fall victim to major interventions. Sometimes it's luck, but often it's also due to people who creatively dedicate themselves to preserving the landscape. In the first half of the 20th century, the Sils plain was considered as a location for a hydroelectric power plant. While the idea was relatively simple, it would nevertheless have meant a significant alteration to the landscape. On the other hand, its implementation would have been very financially attractive for the municipalities of Sils and Stampa at that time, when financial security was not a given. However, the realization grew among locals, visitors, and conservationists that only the unique lake landscape of the Upper Engadine could provide the foundation for the emerging tourism industry and ensure long-term financial returns for the municipalities. After lengthy and emotionally charged disputes, which also significantly disrupted the peace within some Sils families, an agreement was reached with the municipalities of Sils and Stampa to abandon the hydroelectric power plant project in exchange for compensation. As a result, the organization Pro Lej da Segl was founded in 1944, and the idea of the chocolate coin was born. The sale of these coins was intended to finance compensation for the affected communities. More than 823,000 coins were sold throughout Switzerland – one of the most successful fundraising campaigns of its time. Today, visitors and locals in Sils still enjoy the breathtaking scenery surrounding Lake Sils and Lake Silvaplana, as well as the melt-in-your-mouth chocolate coins, which are still sold by students in Sils and throughout Switzerland. An aperitif will be offered afterward. Instead of a collection, you can purchase a chocolate coin.