Schwyz E Korr6.Qxp 04.11.15 11:16 Seite 1 Vorlage Infoschwyz E Korr6.Qxp 04.11.15 11:16 Seite 2

Home , Grosser Mythen, Lauerz, Muota, Schwyz

vorlage_infoschwyz_e_korr6.qxp 04.11.15 11:16 Seite 1 vorlage_infoschwyz_e_korr6.qxp 04.11.15 11:16 Seite 2

WELCOME TO SCHWYZ

You will be surprised by the wide variety the capital of the canton has to offer. Dis- cover the genteel charm of its stately patrician manors, its main square in baroque style and the Town Hall with its murals from the 19th century. Did you know that two famous items distinctive to Switzerland originated here in Schwyz? Schwyz is home to the Victorinox Swiss Army Knife and the Swiss Charter – Switzerland’s myth- enshrouded founding document. The two Mythen mountains (Grosser Mythen and Kleiner Mythen) tower majesti- cally over Schwyz. This pair of peaks gave the surrounding hiking and winter sports region its name. Experience the Alps on a visit to Fronalpstock or the Rigi massif – just two of the many destinations in the surrounding region. Schwyz is also the gate- way to the Muota Valley, a veritable nature paradise. Memorable day trips and relaxing holidays are our trademark. We wish you an unforgettable stay. vorlage_infoschwyz_e_korr6.qxp 04.11.15 11:16 Seite 3

Stately manors mark the landscape in and around Schwyz. They bear archi- tectural witness to a vibrant history full of change.

BRIEF HISTORY

The name of Schwyz. In all likelihood, the name has Germanic roots: the word «sueit» means to scorch or to burn. According to this, Schwyz would be named after a pre- Alemannic glade or cleared woodland. The name of Switzerland was derived from the village’s name Schwyz, which is also the name of the canton. Schwyz was a ham- let with an important function due to its central location, granting it market rights, but no municipal laws. 15th and 16th century. At the end of the 15th century mercenary soldiers served in foreign armies – out of the spirit of adventure as well as out of economic necessity. Hundreds of young men went to war under the banners of influential mercenary lea- ders from Schwyz. Their commanders also had leading roles, for they were diplo- matically competent, educated and wealthy. 18th century. Schwyz must have appeared quite idyllic to strangers at that time. This is verified by travel accounts, for example, by J.W. Goethe. Undoubtedly, the quality of life was high for the upper class, but the situation for the peasants and day la- bourers was very modest. The invasion of French troops in 1798 proved to be dis- astrous for Schwyz, for despite valiant resistance, the inhabitants of Schwyz were forced to surrender. 19th and 20th century. After the new Federal State was established in 1848, changes occurred in Schwyz only gradually. Rigorous village structures and stringent moral guidelines resulted in scepticism towards innovations from the outside: technology and tourism were only cautiously accepted. The Catholic Church had a decisive influence on life at that time with its holy days of obligation and traditional customs. ABCDE F G H JKL MNOP Feld Langfeld Bol Rüti Bogigen

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ABCDE F G H JKL MNOP ABCDE F G H JKL MNOP Feld Langfeld Bol Rüti Bogigen

S t e 1 i Jakobsweg 1 n b U is l m i n islin f Steinb a Hasliweg h Ried r sse u SATTEL / CHUR / LUZERN/ ZÜRICH tra n Stoffels gss g Huob Eggeli run s PFÄFFIKON ARTH Umfah s t r a s li s tt e a A4A4 m d g Hasli ie e R R Underi ie A w d c g Vogleren Wegmattli m h r e e Altersmatt a r b RotacherRotacherRotacher Obrigsmatt tt li i Früheren und Gelsseren Bitzi l w g 2 i e Schwändlen 2 g n E W e ss ü Seewen a r

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u l K e s Feldli . p a s t

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n ie a kloster r Steisteg hm St. Peter Siti F c Hinder S Grosshus n e e k Schwyz Tourismus, Zeughausstrasse 10, next to the Museum Forum ss c G

ra of Swiss History. a W st ü r W n l t e RosslückenRösslücken s e k y c s N n Lü e s o l ulü a i r s ck u t G r S e b a chm n e Gräbi r. s F e s s r n s it i s e t Guided tours for groups.a e t BelgertsBelgerts e r

ttst nm — Historical tour: 1 hr.t dh ra F

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r a Walking tour highlightingn the most important landmarks in Schwyz. e a a

7 m tt e o Sagenmatt 7 n

n n st — Historical tourz with a brief visit to one of the museums: 1½ hrs. f z z r t

. — Culture andü cuisine, walking tour with degustation: 2 hrs. s o o tte t

Rubiswil i h r s s Rubiswil

Se Specialitiesc from Schwyz combined with the major sights in Schwyz. a e e S

RiedmattliRiedmattliRiedmattli m ile — Manors in Schwyz: 2 hrs. s n n h r s

c s M History of mercenary soldiering with a look behind the high walls. e F Tobelbach

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a i ss ü — Flags and flag throwing course: 3 – 4 hrs. (in German). e e Höfli h 99 throws, the flag collection in the Museum of Swiss Charters and d l e h A n a hearty lunch. llerheilige m o s e R Information, advice, reservation. Schwyz Tourismus, Ta 041ss 855e 59 50, t s R u tr fs r M ie G b a s a as dm tt [email protected], www.info-schwyz.cfh/guided-tours tr uo r o iswi ho s t at t r as s t s e G e a n tliweg t lst h s ha c s tr e rass A r u as k r e s d e n eg s e üc ulw as L st rstra d ch r e s S t s W ra t s Hagni al s n e e t deg g s r g s e s Underi str R r e c s a as e s n a se i s s c eg e B s k a h g Laschmatt w e e r t t n Urenmatt n 8 y 8 s e Wintersried s E b t e t i M a

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ABCDE F G H JKL MNOP vorlage_infoschwyz_e_korr6.qxp 04.11.15 11:16 Seite 6

The museum was opened in 1936. All Federal Charters of the old Swiss Con- federation are displayed.

MUSEUM OF THE SWISS CHARTERS OF CONFEDERATION

On their tour of the exhibition, our visitors are given fascinating insights and more in-depth information on various areas of Swiss history (in four languages). History between Fact… The original documents exhibited in the Museum of the Swiss Charters help to illustrate the varied history of the Old Swiss Confederacy, which was characterised by conflicts and divisions, compromise and cooperation. The Museum also holds a unique collection of flags, which includes the flags of the famous Battles of Morgarten and Sempach and shows the evolution of the Swiss cross. … and Myth. Other themes include the «evil bailiffs», the battles of liberation, he- roes, and the Oath of Rütli. Since the 16th century, these myths have had a major influence on the writing of history, politics and Switzerland’s perception and under- standing of itself. vorlage_infoschwyz_e_korr6.qxp 04.11.15 11:16 Seite 7

The main exhibit is the Federal Charter of 1291, a document caught between the legend and reality of historical culture.

A central aspect of the exhibition is the history of the Federal Charter of 1291, whose role in the Middle Ages and its significance for the Swiss nation state of the 19th and 20th century are explained. Services. Guided tours for groups give an informative general overview or take a closer look at specific specialist topics or themes. Drinks and light refreshments are served in the Museum café. The Museum shop stocks carefully selected publi- cations relating to the history of Switzerland. Opening hours. Tue – Sun 10h00 – 17h00. Contact. Museum of the Swiss Charters of Confederation, Bahnhofstrasse 20, 6430 Schwyz, T 041 819 20 64, [email protected], www.bundesbriefmuseum.ch vorlage_infoschwyz_e_korr6.qxp 04.11.15 11:16 Seite 8

The Ital Reding Estate with the manor is one of the landmarks of Schwyz.

ITAL REDING ESTATE

Estate. The Ital Reding Estate is one of the most imposing estates in the Canton of Schwyz. Built in 1636 by Ital Reding, whose descendants, like him, were mercena- ries and held various political offices in Schwyz and in the Old Swiss Confederacy. The Estate embodies the full splendour of a 17th century manor with accompanying baroque gardens, summer pavilions and farm buildings, surrounded by protective walls. Manor. The rooms on the upper floor, the piano nobile, reveal skilfully crafted wooden ceilings and panelling with sumptuous inlaid work. This unique interior also contains exceptional tiled stoves, remarkable items of furniture and numerous portraits of French kings and of the warlords of the Reding family. The garden hall, the garden and the annexe can be hired for events. vorlage_infoschwyz_e_korr6.qxp 04.11.15 11:16 Seite 9

The grandiose living room in the «piano nobile» of the Ital Reding House.

House Bethlehem. The house Bethlehem stands next to the manor. The building was constructed in 1287, originally without the stone socle and with only small slits for windows. The low-ceilinged rooms helped to retain the heat from the open hearth fires. In the 16th century, wealthy owners renovated the building, installed crown glass windows and created a ceremonial hall with murals within the new stone socle. Farm Buildings. The Cantonal Library of Schwyz is housed here today. Services. Guided tours, group visits and events are on offer all year round. Opening hours. May–October Tue – Fri 14h00 –17h00, Sat & Sun 10h00 – 16h00. Contact. Stiftung Ital Reding-Haus, Rickenbachstrasse 24, Postfach 504, 6431 Schwyz, T 041 811 45 05, [email protected], www.irh.ch vorlage_infoschwyz_e_korr6.qxp 04.11.15 11:16 Seite 10

The Forum of Swiss History Schwyz is a modern museum with a cafeteria and an attractive museum shop.

FORUM OF SWISS HISTORY SCHWYZ

«Switzerland in the Making». The exhibition focuses on the foundation and early de- velopment of the Old Swiss Confederacy in the Middle Ages, with detailed information in four languages (EN, GER, IT, FR), virtual guides and innovative media stations. The museum as lived experience: the visitors become immersed in the world of the Middle Ages. Therefore, children and adults alike are given the oppor- tunity, to follow on the trail of a freight hauler and virtually «step up» the Splügen Pass. The exhibition is an adventure circuit for the whole family. Special exhibitions and manifestations.The special exhibitions in the basement, which change regularly, are very important for the region and Central Switzerland. They take up themes of topical interest and present them in a modern form. vorlage_infoschwyz_e_korr6.qxp 04.11.15 11:16 Seite 11

In the «Knight’s Room» visitors can dress up as medieval ladies and boys can put on a knight’s helmet and suit of armour and have their photograph taken.

The Forum of Swiss History Schwyz opened in 1995 and is the cultural seat of the Swiss National Museum in Central Switzerland. The building, which in former times was used first to store grain and then defence equipment, now houses one of the key museums of cultural history in the alpine region. On the outside, the museum still is a baroque granary and arsenal, dating back to 1711, while the interior has been designed in a spacious, contemporary style. The Forum of Swiss History is both a modern history museum and a place to experience and encounter the country’s cultural history. Services. For schools and groups the museum offers guided tours. Opening hours. Tue – Sun 10h00 – 17h00. Contact. Forum Schweizer Geschichte Schwyz. Hofmatt/Zeughausstrasse 5, 6430 Schwyz, T 058 466 80 11, [email protected], www.forumschwyz.ch vorlage_infoschwyz_e_korr6.qxp 04.11.15 11:16 Seite 12

«Blätzverbrennen» – the traditional fire on the main square is both the high- light and conclusion of Carnival in Schwyz.

CUSTOMS

«Priis-Chlepfe» Geisslechlepfen. On January 6th (Epiphany), a procession of men cracking long two-handed whips gather on the main square to select their champion. «Greiflet». On the evening of the same day, the «Greifler» drive away the evil spirits with their cowbells, creating a thunderous noise as they proceed through the streets to the main square. Carnival. Carnival in Schwyz ranks among the most traditional in Switzerland. It be- gins already on January 6th. Then starting six days before Ash Wednesday, the streets and taverns come to life with traditional Carnival figures. An important part of Carnival is a dance «Nüsseln», a particular series of steps accompanied by drum- rolls. A contest to select best of the best in Schwyz is held every year. «Chlefelen». During Lent children take part in the age-old custom of «Chlefelen» on their way to school. Their instrument (Chlefeli) is comprised of two small hardwood slats; it is also an important accompanying instrument for rhythm in folk music from Schwyz. Cattle fair. The Monday before St. Michael’s day is a major festival for farmers, fea- turing a cattle fair with awards and a parade. «Chilbi» Annual parish fair. The convent’s annual fair has taken place since 1283 making it the oldest in Schwyz. On the second weekend in October a major «Chilbi» with carousels, bars and a market is held around the main square in Schwyz. Christmas. After midnight Mass on Christmas Eve, brass musicians climb the church steeple to play Silent Night in every direction. A quaint, enchanting Christmas market takes place in the centre of Schwyz every two years. vorlage_infoschwyz_e_korr6.qxp 04.11.15 11:16 Seite 13

Bethlehem House on the Ital Reding Estate, built around 1287.

PLACES OF INTEREST

Town Hall. The current Town Hall was built on the foundation walls of the previous one destroyed in a fire in 1642. The historic murals on its façade were painted by Ferdinand Wagner from Munich in 1891 to commemorate the 600th anniversary of the Confederacy. Particularly striking is the painting of the Battle of Morgarten. Main square. Despite the damage, the fire enabled a new concept for rebuilding the village centre. It was enhanced with an impressive main square in baroque style and urbanized burgher houses. The parish church and Town Hall have a dominant presence on the square, which ranks among the most beautiful of this kind in Switzerland. Patrician manors. More than 30 stately manors dating from the 16th and 17th century can be seen in Schwyz. These patrician homes were primarily financed by incomes earned with mercenary soldiering. The architecture bears witness to Italian, French and local influences. Archive Tower. The tower, built around 1200, is the oldest stone building in Schwyz. Presumably, it served as a residence and administration tower. Today the tower is used by the Museum of Swiss Charters for educational activities. In front of it lies the former communal butchery (Metzghofstatt) and communal laundry. Parish church. The church of St. Martin is the sixth church built on the same site Archaeological excavations uncovered fundaments of a small Merovingian church in 730. Today’s parish church was consecrated in 1774. Among experts, it is con- sidered to be Switzerland’s most festive parish church in baroque style. vorlage_infoschwyz_e_korr6.qxp 04.11.15 11:16 Seite 14

ACTIVITIES, EXCURSIONS

Rotenflue-Mythenregion. The Mythen summer and winter sports region lies just 15 minutes from the main square. The summit station of the Rotenflue cable car is the starting point for the hike on the mountain «Grosser Mythen», among others. www.mythenregion.ch Stoos-Fronalpstock. Fronalpstock lies high above Lake Lucerne at 1,922m, and just a little farther below the car-free mountain resort of Stoos, a paradise for summer and winter sports enthusiasts. www.stoos.ch Schwyz circuit. A comfortable hike with a view of the village of Schwyz, the lakes and the mountains. With changing vistas, ascents and descents, past monasteries and chapels, manors and farmsteads. Duration: 2 hrs. Start from the main square and follow the white trail signs for «Rundweg Schwyz-Tschütschi-Rickenbach». Lake Lucerne. Part of the fascination of Lake Lucerne (10 minutes from Schwyz) is its scenic beauty, its fleet of boats and the historical sites located along the shore. Further suggestions: www.info-schwyz.ch/excursions vorlage_infoschwyz_e_korr6.qxp 04.11.15 11:16 Seite 15

The mountain «Grosser Mythen» with Lake Lucerne, Schwyz, Rigi and Lake Lauerz.

HOSPITALITY

Gastronomy. Restaurants in Schwyz take great delight in serving you traditional dishes made from regional products as well as classic specialties. You will find a num- ber of restaurants at the main square and in the near vicinity: www.info-schwyz.ch/ gastronomy Accommodation. Whether for a long weekend or a vacation, hotels and holiday apartments in Schwyz would be delighted to have you as their guest. Accommoda- tion list and booking portal: www.info-schwyz.ch/accommodation

Tourist office Services. We would be happy to advise you, book your accommodation and/or group tours, as well as organise club and company outings for you. Opening hours. Mon – Fri 8h00 – 18h00; also on Sat from mid-May to September, 9h00 – 14h00. Contact. Schwyz Tourismus, Zeughausstrasse 10, 6430 Schwyz, T 041 855 59 50, [email protected], www.info-schwyz.ch vorlage_infoschwyz_e_korr6.qxp 04.11.15 11:16 Seite 16

SCHWYZ – GREAT EXPERIENCES

FOR FAMILIES & CHILDREN Excursion destinations for every age group and any weather: Goldau Animal Park, mountain paradises with play- grounds, adventure, swimming pools, rope parks, and so much more. www.schwyz-tourismus.ch/excursions

FOR GROUPS & SCHOOL CLASSES A variety of special offers for group and school outings designed to fulfill every wish. Spelunking, adventurous husky sledding, history and culture, Forum Schweizer Geschichte Schwyz, SchwyzTourismus flag throwing, making cheese and much more. www.schwyz-tourismus.ch/groups Photos: Stefan Zürrer, Bundesbriefmuseum, Stiftung Ital Reding-Haus,

FOR NATURE LOVERS & SPORTS ENTHUSIASTS An eldorado for hikers, bikers, water sports enthusiasts and nature lovers, with 6 lakes, an extensive network of hiking and biking trails, a primeval spruce forest and caves. www.schwyz-tourismus.ch/sports

FOR GOURMETS & CONNOISSEURS Numerous GaultMillau chefs, tasty ta- vern fare and rustic alpine inns, as well as authentic cuisine served at «ächt SCHWYZ» establishments. Local products such as alpine cheese and kirsch liqueur. www.aecht-schwyz.ch www.schwyz-tourismus.ch/gastronomy

FOR WINTER SPORTS FANS & SUN WORSHIPPERS Winter resorts with ski slopes, cross- country ski trails, natural ice rinks and winter walking trails – frequently above the fog. Only 1 hour from Zug, Lucerne, Zurich. www.schwyz-tourismus.ch/winterfun

Schwyz Tourismus, Zeughausstrasse 10, 6430 Schwyz, T 041 855 59 50, [email protected], www.schwyz-tourismus.ch