History
n 2004, local authorities and tourism leaders in Val-de-Travers began reflecting on how to reclaim a heritage that had long defined the region's identity. Absinthe, once prohibited and forced into clandestinity, remained deeply rooted in local memory. Its re-legalization in Switzerland in 2005 marked both a legislative change and an opportunity for recognition.
A decisive step came in 2007 with the launch of the Franco-Swiss project Route de l'Absinthe, connecting Noiraigue (CH) to Pontarlier (FR) and uniting nearly 80 partners. The initiative revealed a missing element in the region: a strong cultural anchor.
In 2010, the idea of dedicating a building to absinthe took shape. The former District Court of Môtiers was made available by the municipality, and in 2012 the Foundation of the Maison de l'Absinthe was established to bring the vision to life.
Inaugurated on July 3rd, 2014, Maison de l'Absinthe stands today as the institutional recognition of a spirit once condemned.