Museum of Witchcraft Switzerland

About

The Hexenmuseum Schweiz is the only one of its kind in the German-speaking part of Europe. Our collection includes more than 1’000 exhibits on the subject. Witches also encounter us in everyday life through our language and expressions. Also, the «witch hunt» and the rather unfriendly name of a certain genus of women with «weather witches» are still common. When one asks what it’s like «when it comes to the devil» and where the name of «Black Peter» comes from, you have to go back in time to the witch trials. Much custom is still maintained today, but without knowing the meaning or the origin. Or do you know why we should toast with glasses, wear red underwear on New Year’s Day, never open an umbrella in the house, why the the black cat and Friday the 13th allegedly brings calamity and why we do wish us toi, toi, toi? A look into history opens up many contexts, promotes understanding of the emergence of different names and our worldly concept.

At a glance

• Typical visit: about 1 hour 30 minutes