Verein zur Förderung des Ballenbergs (VFB)
The "Verein zur Förderung des Ballenbergs" (VFB) (The Association of Ballenberg Open-Air Museum Patrons) has some 2,800 members from German-speaking Switzerland and Ticino – all part of the big family of enthusiastic Ballenberg supporters.
Since the VFB’s establishment in 1974, it has contributed more than 6.6 million Swiss francs, which has been used to finance a large number of buildings and other projects that would not otherwise have been possible.
Some recent examples:
- CHF 30,719 francs were spent on the reconstruction of the forge from Bümpliz BE (1052). In addition to the forge, the wainwright’s workshop is now installed there as well. The charcoal-burner's house received a new shingle roof for CHF 25,000.
- In spring 2019, the book "Ballenberg ob Brienz – Chronik" by Urs Ritschard was published. This book was also financed by the Ritschard-Welker-Foundation through the VFB. Members of the VFB can obtain a free copy (value CHF 49.00) from the administration of the Open-Air Museum Ballenberg by handing in the coupon.
- Research and documentation, renewal of the museum infrastructure and the museum furniture are also supported by contributions.
Every two years, the VFB organises an event for its members in various regions of the country.
We invite you to support the Open-Air Museum by becoming a member of the Association for the Advancement of Ballenberg. You’ll benefit in a number of ways:
- free admission to the Museum throughout the season (Membership PLUS)
- You’ll be invited every two years to an interesting members’ excursion.
- Be among the first to be informed about current goings-on at the Open-Air Museum and support with your contribution the preservation of the unique Open-Air Museum Ballenberg!
Please contact us at vfb@ballenberg.ch, we look forward to welcoming you!
Ballenberg
Swiss Open-Air Museum
Museumsstrasse 100
CH-3858 Hofstetten bei Brienz
Opening hours
10 April to 2 November 2025
10 am to 5 pm daily
