Between Morges and Yverdon-les-Bains, the village of La Sarraz is dominated by an imposing castle. Here, in the castle’s barn, the Musee du Cheval horse museum tells the story of man’s greatest conquest. A fascinating place to visit for both children and parents.
The Musée du Cheval was opened in the imposing original 18th century barn at La Sarraz Castle in 1982.
The museum is the only one in Switzerland dedicated to the horse and is divided into several themes:
- art
- equine veterinary medicine
- the horse in the history of agriculture
- the horse in the army
- sport
- racing - games
- leisure
This rich collection includes some unusual historical pieces including the Grimsel mail coach which was built in 1895 and ran from Meiringen to Gletsch until 1922. Jean-Abram Noverraz, Napoleon Bonaparte’s Vaudois servant, left the gifts he received from the emperor who was subsequently exiled to Saint Helena on Vaudois soil. These included three French style saddles, three bridles decorated with silver and four hunting rifles which were for Napoleon’s personal use.
Artists, painters, sculptors and comic strip illustrators are invited each month for an exhibition and sale.
The museum also offers conferences, training courses, book signings and all other activities related to the equestrian world.
