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An elderly woman and a girl in traditional dress work together on a historical farming activity, surrounded by an atmosphere of cultural heritage and community learning.

Brächete Zäziwil

Zäziwil: a little village in the Emmental where modernity meets tradition. On 24 September, the Swiss Village of the Year 2023 will be showcasing an old craft, the “Brächete” (flax breaking).
24September 2025
Past event
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On hot summer days, the fabric-savvy wear clothes made from linen to stay cool. The production of these garments requires linen yarn made from the fibres of the flax plant. After harvesting, the plant is dried and the outer part of the stalk removed. This process is called “Bräche” (breaking) and is repeated until most of the stalk is separated from the fibre inside. It is what gave the event in Zäziwil its name.

The picture shows a woman in traditional dress sifting grain with concentration. The rustic setting and the old technique convey a sense of tradition and craftsmanship in a rural, historical atmosphere.
© Brächete Zäziwil

In 2023, the magazine “Schweizer Illustrierte” crowned Zäziwil “Village of the Year” – thanks, in part, to the traditional “Brächete” as well as the village’s large market with its over 100 stands. Just like the “Brächete”, the market takes place on the last Wednesday in September from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. in the village centre. The event resumes at 8 p.m. with a bar, catering and a disco under the large marquee.

This way to the “Brächete”

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The imposing castle towers over Burgdorf - a sense of history with far-reaching views included.

A region with plenty more to offer than cheese

The Emmental