Panzermuseum Thun
Collection of all tank types procured by the Swiss Army, from the Renault FT to the Leopard 2, in the old riding hall of the Thun barracks.
No sound? Check your device’s silent switch.
Have only individual sections read aloud
About the museum
The idea of a proper tank museum in Switzerland had long existed but was repeatedly postponed. The Army Motor Vehicle Park used to hold at least one operational example of every tank ever introduced into the army. These vehicles were to be brought out of their hiding places and shown both to the cadres of the armoured troops and to the public.
The opportunity came in 2002 with the creation of the Armoured Training Formation (Lehrverband Panzer). Brigadier Fred Heer secured permission to use the old riding hall of the Thun barracks, and with the support of many patrons the project took shape. On 19 May 2005 the exhibition was opened under the title "Collection of Historic Tanks of the Army"; today it is looked after by the Foundation for Historic Material of the Swiss Army (Stiftung HAM).
On display are all the armoured vehicles that the Swiss Army has procured, from the Renault FT of 1921 to the Leopard 2, which is still in service today. All but one vehicle are roadworthy and are demonstrated at special events. The display is complemented by a collection of uniforms and weapons of the armoured troops. The former outdoor exhibition with prototypes, test vehicles and foreign tanks is permanently closed.
Highlights
- All tank types procured by the Swiss Army from 1921 to the Leopard 2
- Practically all vehicles are roadworthy and are demonstrated at events
- Collection of uniforms and weapons of the armoured troops
- Housed in the old riding hall of the Thun barracks
- Visits with expert guided tours
Permanent exhibition
- Sammlung historische Panzer (Indoor) – The teaching collection shows all tanks of the Swiss Army from the Renault FT to the Leopard 2, plus uniforms and weapons of the armoured troops.
- Founded
- 2005
- Operated by
- Stiftung für Historisches Material der Schweizer Armee (Stiftung HAM)
Admission & discounts
| Groups (6+ people) | –Group tours for 6 or more people; prices are not published on the website. |
|---|
The schedule of public tours lists the price as CHF 0.
Accessibility
- Partially wheelchair accessible
- Elevator: no information
- Accessible restroom: no information
- Accessible parking: no information
- Service dogs welcome: no information
- Tactile models & exhibits: no information
- Sign language tours: no information
- Easy-to-read materials: no information
- Audio description: no information
According to the foundation, the Thun site is not accessible throughout without barriers.
Kids & families
Only partly suitable for kidsRecommended for ages 12+
Public tours are for ages 12 and up.
Getting there & parking
By car, turn from the Allmendstrasse into the Regiestrasse, cross the Aare and turn left immediately before the Restaurant Bellevue; at the entrance gate, report by calling +41 58 468 45 12.
Get directionsAmenities & dining
The museum hasn’t published any information on this.
Events & venue rental
The museum hasn’t published any information on this.
Plan your visit
| Guided tours | yes · approx. 2 hrs |
|---|---|
| Good to know | Public tours last about two hours; group tours about two to three hours depending on requirements. Minimum age for public tours: 12 years. The Stiftung HAM shows further vehicles at its site in Burgdorf (not part of this entry). |
