Saturday, June 30, 2007

Ballenberg - Swiss Open-Air Museum



Today we ventured into middle Switzerland to visit Ballenberg (also see Ballenberg in Wiki). For Indianapolis Hoosiers it's similar to Conner Prairie. We wandered around villages that were recreated from originals structures that have been moved from 13 specific regions of Switzerland. This museum allows you to see inside the structures, learn more about Swiss domesticated animals (chickens, cows (video), rabbits, and pigs) and understand Swiss crafts and trades (wood carving, cheese making, basket weaving, and chocolate making). There were school houses, chapels, barns, houses, small animal structures and alike - the vast roof structures on them varied from thatched, tiled, slated and shingled. The setting was absolutely stunning in the middle of a valley with gushing waterfalls and beautiful mountain scenery. It was a great way to learn more about Switzerland. See our pictures here!

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