For centuries, the Basel region has been an important industrial and commercial centuries. Today, the Roche Towers are the visible embodiment of Basel's economic importance. Yet the region's industrial heritage goes beyond "Big Pharma". Hidden in the shadows of the Roche Towers lies the rich industrial history of the surrounding regions. Liestal, for example, used to be one of the most important textile production sites in Switzerland.
Basel is one of Switzerland's leading economic centres and thus an ideal location for the Swiss Economic Archives. Whether you are interested in local companies or the national economic history of Switzerland, the Swiss Economic Archives will provide you with answers.
The 12 linear kilometres of files contain business books, photographs, maps and other documents on Switerzland's economic history. Company archives of national importance, such as those of the tinned food manufacturer Hero, as well as local institutions are being kept here.
The Canton of Baselland also ahs a rich economic history. In Pratteln, the discovery of salt deposits in 1836 led to a surge of new industries settling in the area: The saltworks were the first industrial operation in Pratteln. Other businesses soon followed. The construction of the Basel-Liestal railway, which ran through Pratteln, gave the local economy a further boost. Pratteln was best-known for its chemical industry.
The Bprgerhaus Pratteln sheds light on the day-to-day village life of the past and present. The industirial and economic history of the community is a focal point of the exhibition. The large factory halls have shaped the lives of generations. Video and audio contributions invite you to discover individual fates and company stories related to Pratteln's industrial history.
Long into the 20th century, Liestal was considered to be the most industrialised town in the Canton of Baselland; thanks mainly to its textile industry. The textile businesses covered all the needs: From spinning over weaving to dyeinng and fulling, everyone set up shop in Liestal.
As the cantonal Museum of Basel-Landschaft, the Museum.BL pays special attention to the regional industrial culture. One section of its exhibition is dedicated to the textile industry and the everyday history of the factory workers.
The expansion of the railway network was a decisivie factor for the industrial boom in the region. The railway junction in Olten is of particular importance. Both the north-south and east-west axex converge here. Olten links the Basel region with other areas of economic importance, including Zurich.
At the SBB Historic depot in Olten, you can take a look at numerous historic vehicles from Switzerland's rich railway history. Climb aboard and experience a journey through time with locomotives such as the "Crocodile" or the "Red Arrow".
This tour follows the Basel-Olten railway line. We therefore recomend that you travel by train. For the stop in Pratteln, you have to use the regional trains.
Please note the different opening hours of the individual institutions. The historical depot in Olten is only open on request.
