The Swiss Heritage Society, an independent non-governmental organization, operates the Swiss Heritage Center at the Villa Patumbah. Since 1905, the association and its 25 cantonal chapters have been committed to the promotion of building culture. It is supported by around 27,000 members and patrons.
The Swiss Heritage Society advocates for the built heritage and important urban and rural spaces and initiates discussions on the sustainable development of the designed environment. A particular focus is currently on the three areas of “Environment and Sustainability”, “Civic Involvement” and “Building Culture Education”.
The office of the Swiss Heritage Society is located on the upper floors of Villa Patumbah. The Ferien im Baudenkmal Foundation for holidays in buildings of historic significance and the Schoggitaler chocolate medallion fundraising campaign are also based here. Together we form a centre for building culture.