1041 – Kiosk from Bönigen, Berne, 1880

A woodcarver had this kiosk built on a prominent site in Bönigen near Interlaken. There he sold souvenirs, naturally enough mainly carving of his own manufacture. However, after the beginning of the war of 1914, international tourism collapsed. People stayed away in droves, and those who came could not always afford hand-carved souvenirs. The kiosk then resorted to selling newspapers, snacks, sweets and tobacco. It became a mini-super[1]market like present-day kiosks.

For more than 200 years tourism has been a significant economic factor in the Bernese Oberland. Since the 1770’s it had been thought chic among the better circles of European society to "do" a tour of Switzerland. The Unspunnen celebrations and, after 1863 Thomas Cook’s guided tours, brought thousands of tourists into the region. Not only the beautiful landscapes and stunning mountains attracted visitors. City dwellers were just as enthused by the rural culture: houses, costumes, customs and alpine life were also highlights. Under these circumstances Brienz woodcarving, too, was able to develop into a must among souvenirs.