Matterhorn Museum – Zermatlantis

Hidden beneath the village square, this museum is more like stepping into a storybook than a gallery. Built to resemble an underground alpine village, Zermatlantis brings Zermatt’s past to life with reconstructed chalets, workshops and even the tiny church where locals once gathered.

The exhibits trace the dramatic history of mountaineering, including the first—and tragic—attempts to climb the Matterhorn, with artifacts like ropes and gear that feel almost too fragile for the risks they carried. Beyond the mountain lore, the museum reveals what daily life was like in this remote valley, weaving together tales of farming, tourism and survival in harsh alpine conditions.

Interactive displays keep it engaging for children and adults alike, making it an experience that is both educational and surprisingly atmospheric. By the time you resurface into modern Zermatt, you’ll see the village with a new sense of context, shaped by centuries of grit and ambition.