Cazis: municipality in the Hinterrhein district of Graubünden, Switzerland

Geography and character

Cazis occupies a valley location with a combination of cultivated land and mountain slopes. The settlement pattern combines a compact village centre with hamlets and scattered farms. Buildings show traditional Alpine architecture alongside modern housing and community facilities. The surrounding landscape supports forestry, agriculture and recreational use such as walking and mountain sports.

History and municipal changes

Historically the locality developed as a rural parish and local market centre. On 1 January 2010 Cazis enlarged when the former municipalities of Portein, Präz, Sarn and Tartar were merged into the municipality. That reorganisation reflected a wider trend in Switzerland toward consolidation of small communes to improve public services and administration.

Administration, transport and services

As a municipal centre Cazis provides local government services, primary education and basic shops for its area. It is linked to the region by road and regional public transport; connections serve larger towns and access routes toward mountain passes. Local infrastructure supports both residents and visitors.

Economy and cultural life

The economy mixes small-scale agriculture, forestry, local crafts, hospitality and some light industry or services. Cultural life is grounded in community events, church and village festivals, with linguistic traditions reflecting the bilingual German–Romansh environment common in parts of Graubünden.

• Typical features: rural centre, mixed land use, local administration.
• Practical interest: base for outdoor recreation and regional travel.
• Notable change: expansion through 2010 municipal merger.