The Museum Project, Schliersee, Germany

The Fellows constructed and restored a 17th century farmhouse at Lake Schliersee in the German Alps with 15 Fellows from all over the world from September 2009 on.

What did 17th century life in the Bavarian mountains look like? They found out together with other Fellows from around the world. Together with Markus Wasmeier, they restored a 17th century farmhouse with materials, tools and techniques originally used in these times. Together with the team rebuilt the farmhouse from scratch and learned unique wood-crafting techniques and handicraft skills that are almost forgotten.

The museum of Markus Wasmeier buys old farms that either cannot be maintained or which are acutely threatened and rebuilds them within the area of the museum.  The farmhouse they constructed – the Behamhof – became part of the beautiful Farming & Winter Sports Museum Schliersee.

The Fellows learned the historical handicraft and construction methods! They went in the woods to look for the right stones, which they had to use for the construction; they built roof shingles and learned many more amazing techniques. Furthermore, they explored the nature and the many monuments in the area. Aside from architectural skills and the knowledge of how to build a house without heavy machinery, they baked homemade bread in the old oven, prepared traditional meals of secret recipes and learned how to brew beer as people did in the past.

The Fellows thus gained a unique insight into centuries-old architectural practices and life in the past. And they got to live together with Fellows from all around the world in one of the most beautiful spots in Germany!

Find out more about the Museum Project in the D&F World.