The new, 1000-m² Swiss history exhibition depicts how Switzerland came to be over a period of 550 years – beginning in the late Middle Ages, through the early modern era to the democratic institutions challenged by globalisation today.

In addition to citizenship, the right to vote and separation of powers, a democratic society needs an integrative community. This includes participation in national institutions and identification with shared symbols. How these institutions came to be and the use of such symbols is the central theme of the new permanent “History of Switzerland” exhibition. Local, language-regional and international puzzle pieces illustrate this interplay and the development process from the Old Swiss Confederacy into a modern federal state.

The new permanent “History of Switzerland” exhibition thus takes you on a tour from the 15th to the 21st century. The journey through the centuries conveys the historical context of regional movements and international using selected exhibits: Unique manuscripts and famous pieces, such as Charles Le Brun’s Alliance Tapestry from 1663 and the anti-aircraft cannon by the Bührle company, highlight important social and economic setbacks and achievements in Switzerland. The exhibition explains the development of Switzerland at various turning points.

The history of Switzerland is also a history of borders that have been formed and repeatedly moved, whether they are geographical, linguistic or religious borders. The continually renewed attempts to overcome these divisions made it possible to become a modern, sovereign state in the heart of Europe. The exhibition also crosses a time boundary that is often considered taboo for historical museums. It dares to examine contemporary history. The part of the exhibition dedicated to the 21st century deals with global issues such as migration, climate change and robotics. Questions are posed for the present day. The answers to these questions will shape Switzerland’s future.