Haslebacherhof, Sumiswald
Take a journey into the past of the Anabaptists in the Emmental or learn more about the fascinating world of the forest.
The Haslebacher Hof is located in the heart of Switzerland, in the municipality of Sumiswald, amidst the beautiful rolling hills of the Emmental.
In addition to information about Swiss agriculture, since 2007 guests have been able to learn more about a dark chapter in Swiss history in an exhibition on the Anabaptist Haslibacher.
Anabaptist exhibition
Since 2007, the attic has housed an exhibition on family history dating back to the 16th century. This was the time when the Anabaptist movement emerged, a dark chapter in Swiss history. The family's ancestor, Hans Haslibacher, was an Anabaptist and Anabaptist teacher, but the authorities did not tolerate these religious communities and persecuted these people to the death. During a guided tour, you can learn more about this history and gain a little insight into the lives of the Amish in America, who still practice this faith today.
History
The last Anabaptist, who was sentenced to death by the Bernese government in 1571, lived on the Haslebacherhof farm. A song with 32 verses tells how he was "sentenced from life to death." In this exhibition, the verses can be read to the melody of the Haslebacher song in the "Shame and Disgrace" room. Opposite, in the keep of Trachselwald Castle, the Haslebacher song can be heard sung by Amish people.
The Sumiswald Anabaptist Trail
The Anabaptist Trail leads from the church in Sumiswald via the castle and Chleinegg up to Schönenützel. Via Haretegg, it continues to Trachselwald Castle and from there back to Sumiswald. Those who take on the hiking route will be doubly rewarded: on the one hand, it is a varied nature experience, and on the other, the ten information boards offer a highly interesting journey through history. At the individual stations, you will not only learn more about the life and death of the aforementioned Hans Haslibacher – there is also talk, for example, of a tolerant representative of the authorities, the story of a family from Wasen who emigrated to the USA, and the meeting places of the Anabaptists in the municipality of Sumiswald.of the Anabaptists in the municipality of Sumiswald. Forest tour During the joint excursion through the farm's own forest, you will learn many exciting facts about the forest as a living, working, and recreational space, tailored to the respective season. The forest tour is only available for larger groups. Schools and groups The activities are suitable for schools and groups.
