Haus am Grund

At first glance, the Haus am Grund appears to be a large and charming farmhouse. Yet its appearance is deceptive: behind its walls lies more than 700 years of history.

Origins and Early History

The building was first mentioned in records in 1286. At that time, a medieval residential tower stood on this site, built by the respected von Einwil family from Obwalden. In the 16th century, the property passed into the hands of the Imfeld family through marriage.

A Representative Residence

Niklaus Imfeld initially took over the house, but it was his son Marquard Imfeld who gave the building its present form. Marquard was not only a knight, Landammann (chief magistrate) and diplomat, but also a man with architectural ambition. In 1588, he had most of the original tower demolished and transformed the structure into a prestigious residence.

He may have been inspired by his father-in-law, Melchior Lussi, who around the same time remodelled the Winkelriedhaus in Stans. Marquard Imfeld sought to make his social standing and political influence visible through architecture.

Life and Convictions

Marquard’s son, Melchior Imfeld, continued this tradition by adding a large banqueting hall, creating space for hosting guests and celebrating festive occasions.

Personal convictions also shaped Marquard Imfeld’s life. According to the Lucerne chronicler Rennward Cysat, he abstained completely from drinking wine — an unusual stance for a knight of his time. Even a wager made in 1579 failed to persuade him to drink. He explained that he wished to avoid the excesses and conflicts associated with alcohol.

The House Today

For over two centuries, the Haus am Grund remained in the possession of the Imfeld family before being divided in the 18th century. Today, the building is listed as a protected historic monument and is still inhabited.

Inside, traces of different eras can be discovered, ranging from medieval stone walls to wallpaper from the 1970s. The house is more than a residential building — it is a vivid testimony to local history and to the personal stories of generations who lived here.

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