The mysterious Villa Patumbah

Well, as we quickly learn from Johann, the history of the property unfortunately "only" goes back to the 19th century. Carl Fürchtegott Grob, who became rich growing tobacco in Sumatra, had it built here in the Riesbach neighbourhood. No knights then.

But the disappointment is limited. There are many stories. The butler captivates Gustavo with his tales from the very first minute and practically enlists him as his squire: He is repeatedly allowed to reveal pictures, present things and give his opinions.

He is even presented with an old railway: it was only thanks to it that the expensive marble for the villa could be transported from Italy to Zurich via the Gotthard route.

But the restored interior of the villa also provides a few subtle jaw-droppers: a wooden hallelujah from a door, the finest wallpaper, coffered ceilings and wall decorations. And suddenly, lucky dragons appear from above. The young critic is told three times why the ceiling of the master bedroom is charred. Johann knows - and much more.

After he has left, Gustavo wants to stay in the villa for a long time. He was not the only one who found the hour-long theatre tour extremely entertaining. And that's always the best compliment.

What else goes through your mind? Why give away a villa like this? And why not work at the office of the Swiss Heritage Society? Then you could pretend every day that you own a little bit of Villa Patumbah.

Gustavo is already looking forward to the summer jungle tour. It's a great way to get to know the park even better. On the way home, he is already imagining that there are sparkling emeralds waiting for him somewhere under the big trees, which he can then take home with him. After Sunday's visit to the villa, it has to be said: When it comes to imaginative wealth, builder Carl Fürchtegott Grob and the semi-professional Gwunderase Gustavo Ernesto Schräder are at least on a par.

The guided tours around and through the Villa Patumbah with butler Johann will continue to take place on the first Sunday of every month until April. Further information and tickets are available at this link.