Gib Gumel!

The potato, a humble tuber, but with an impressive history and an enormous influence on mankind. Its origins lie in the Andes of South America, where indigenous peoples have cultivated it for centuries. However, it was only with the arrival of Francisco Pizarro in Spain in 1531 that it began its journey to Europe. From there, it quickly spread across the continent and revolutionized eating habits and agriculture.

In Switzerland, the potato plays a similarly important role, although it only arrived in the 18th century. Today, it is impossible to imagine Swiss cuisine without it and it has become an important part of the culinary tradition. But its importance goes far beyond the gastronomic level.

Lisina Gut and Fabiano De Gani have recognized that the potato has a fascinating story to tell and have created an interactive and multi-sensory exhibition called “Gib Gumel!”, which takes visitors on a journey through the various aspects of the tuber. Through stations tailored to individual senses, visitors are immersed in the history, science, art, anthropology and even spirituality of the potato.

The exhibition also raises important questions: What would Europe be today without the potato? What role did power, hunger and industrialization play in its history? And what can the future hold for this versatile vegetable? The answers to these questions are as varied as the exhibition itself.

The “Gumel”, as the potato is affectionately known in the canton of Schwyz, is far more than just a vegetable. It is a symbol of the connection between man and nature, of innovation and adaptability. Gib Gumel!” brings this fascinating story to life and encourages us to reflect on the importance and future of the potato in our society.