Alpine Museum of Switzerland

Overview

The Alpine Museum of Switzerland explores the relationship between humans and the Alps through culture, science, and art. Located near Helvetiaplatz, it offers thoughtful exhibitions on mountaineering, climate change, tourism, and alpine communities.

Highlights

• Relief Model of the Bernese Oberland: A large-scale topographic model of the Bernese Alps created in the 19th century.
• Rotating Exhibitions: Contemporary art and photography confronting topics like glacier retreat and sustainable mountain tourism.
• Mountain Library: A reading room with alpine literature, maps, and expedition reports.

History

Founded in 1905 by the Swiss Alpine Club (SAC), the museum was originally focused on mountaineering trophies and cartography. It was reimagined in 2012 with a new curatorial direction emphasising the Alps as a living, contested landscape rather than a static backdrop.

Visitor Tips

• Tip 1: Check the current temporary exhibition — they change frequently and are always thought-provoking.
• Tip 2: The museum café has a sheltered garden terrace, ideal for a lunch break between museum visits.
• Duration: 45–60 minutes.