History Retold - The Alpine Town Museum in Sonthofen

Once you enter the exhibition, the scent of herbs transports you to alpine meadows. Get to know the Allgäu's winter customs by getting up close with Bärbele masks. On December 4th, groups of women (“Bärbele”) dress up in costumes adorned with cowbells and carry around brooms as they stroll through town - delivering gentle spanks to anyone daring to get too close to them. Traditionally, they also deliver small gifts such as apples and nuts to mothers and children. 

Looking for a little adrenaline rush? A fast-paced interactive sledding experience promises excitement and wobbly legs. There's plenty to explore for children in particular: Friedl the housefly guides young visitors through the exhibition on a specially designed children's trail.

The history of the former NS-Ordensburg is illuminated from five different perspectives: Builder/architect, region/municipality, staff/employees/guests, AH pupils/teaching staff/trainees, Allies/armed forces. With the help of numerous documents, objects, images and audio material, visitors are invited to form their own picture of this dark chapter in Sonthofen's history. Various books and media stations allow you to delve deeper into the topic. A special feature: a large model illustrates the state of the facility around 1945.

The centrepiece of the museum is its old farmhouse with a historic core dating back to 1555. On their tour through the rooms, visitors are immersed in the everyday life of a farming family at the end of the 19th century. Furniture and everyday objects show how parents, children and grandparents used to live in a "Mitterstallhaus". An audio experience featuring a conversation at the dinner table transports visitors back in time.

The impressive nativity scene by deaf master saddler Johann Georg Schmiedeler depicts the story of Christmas and various other scenes from the life of Jesus with many loving details. Around 170 figures and the landscape scenery have been carefully restored for the new presentation in the AlpenStadtMuseum (Alpine Town Museum).

Although the museum was only reopened in 2023, it is a place steeped in history. The core of the listed farmhouse has already witnessed around 400 years of the town's history. In 1930, a local history museum was established in this part, which has undergone various expansion and remodelling phases over the decades. With the purchase of the neighbouring building, preparation for the reopening as the AlpenStadtMuseum (Alpine Town Museum) began.

With its light wood panels, friendly colours and comfortable resting spots, the museum aims to be a place of comfort people want to come back to. It seems to have succeeded: Since its reopening in January 2023, the museum has delighted visitors from near and far as well as experts. The team has been honoured with various awards for its architecture, design and educational concept. In the charming museum café, visitors can enjoy refreshments and reflect on their museum visit. 

Make sure to check the museum's website (external link, opens in a new window) for more information on special exhibitions, fun events and educational activities. Guided tours are available on request. Starting at the end of October 2024, a special exhibition will offer insights into the fascinating history of the Sonthofen mountain rescue service.