Brienz is a municipality in the Interlaken (district) of the Canton of Berne in Switzerland.

Geography

Brienz lies on the north bank of Lake Brienz in the Bernese Oberland at the foot of the Brienzer Rothorn mountain.

Economics

Tourism and woodcarving are the main activities. The Cantonal Woodcarving School established in 1862 is well-known and respected in the trade.

History

Evidence has been found for a settlement by the Alamanni in the 7th century. Brienz was first documented in 1146, and in 1528 after an eventful history Brienz became part of the Canton of Berne.

Points of interests

• In the difficult years of the First World War a sea-promenade was built that leads along the village to the lake shore, and is probably something one of the most beautiful things Brienz has to offer. With magnificent flower beds and tree plantings, it offers, unencumbered from traffic, peace and relaxation.
• Ride the Brienz Rothorn Bahn, a steam train up the Brienzer Rothorn.
• The Ballenberg open-air museum of nearly 100 original century-old buildings from all over Switzerland
• wood carvings
• Giessbach waterfall with the Giessbach-Bahn, the oldest Funicular in Europe

External links

• Brienz website
• Brienz-rothorn-Bahn
• Ballenberg openair museum
• photographs of Brienz