Taking a look behind the walls of the Ital Reding estate is definitely worth it. It provides insight into the architecture and way of life of that era.

Inside the enclosing walls lies the manor house, the Bethlehem House and the farm building (what is today the Cantonal Library). Ital Reding’s manor house was built in 1609. In front of the building lies a Baroque garden flanked by two summer houses. Visitors can admire the lavishly designed interiors of the manor house. The large garden hall is located on the ground floor, under which is the beautiful vaulted cellar. As is traditional, the actual staterooms are found on the first floor, with sumptuous wooden panelling and ceilings. These rooms document the social rise of a family that achieved wealth, power and status as mercenary entrepreneurs.

The Bethlehem House in Schwyz is regarded as the oldest timber house in Europe. It is a relic of the founding days of the Old Swiss Confederacy and was erected in 1287. This is four years before the time when the three founding cantons joined in an alliance and laid the foundations for modern Switzerland. The two-storey Bethlehem House features different room layouts. This is a sign that it is a former manor house. The brickwork basement is home to a hall built in the 16th century and adorned with murals. With the exception of the window openings with their pulley shutters and boarded loggias from the 18th century, its original condition is largely preserved.

An iPad for the interactive, multimedia guided iPad-app tour is included in the entry fee upon presentation of official identification.

• Group visits
  (with or without guided tour) are available all year by prior arrangement.
• Exhibitions and events from the annual programme
  You are welcome at any time and don’t require a personal invitation. (see programme)
• Museum Pass for the museums in Schwyz
  Reduced entry fees to Schwyz’s museums CHF 10.00
  Forum of Swiss History, Museum of the Swiss Charters of Confederation and the Ital Reding estate.

The Ital Reding House and the Bethlehem House remain closed to individual visitors between November and April.