Models showing the history of the city of Neuchâtel
As the centrepiece of a superb exhibition area that contrasts old and new, seven fascinating historical models show how the city of Neuchâtel developed between the years 1000 and 2000. Visitors can learn about the mechanisms that prompted the city's growth from its origins around a castle until it reached its present area, which extends from Serrières to Hauterive.
The models offer a highly attractive way of exploring Neuchâtel's urban development. For example, they demonstrate the importance of the fortifications during the Middle Ages, and the impact of the huge construction sites that remodelled the city, such as the 19th-century land reclamation work on the lake.
The models were built by Jean-Fred Boekholt in the late 1990s; they needed about 10,000 hours of work including 3,500 hours for scientific research.
The models are accompanied by a small exhibition that documents the social and cultural history of the city and its residents.
The town's models are located in the Galeries de l'histoire, on the site of the Neuchâtel Archives, in the north courtyard of the Hôtel DuPeyrou, one of the most beautiful buildings in the town of Neuchâtel.
Opening times: Visit the Neuchâtel City Archives website
Admission: free of charge