Stein AR

Stein is a municipality in the canton of Appenzell Ausserrhoden in Switzerland. It has a population of 1385 (2002). The area of Stein is 938 hectares.

The designation Stein AR is often used to distinguish Stein from other places with the same name, in particular Stein am Rhein.

Stein is home to the Appenzell Folklore Museum which attracts large numbers of tourists. The museum is devoted to Appenzell culture and handicrafts such as beltmaking, cowbells and carpentry. There is also an extensive display of traditional folk art, such as furniture decorated with scenes from daily scenes. The most prolific of these uncelebrated artists is Johannes Müller who also worked as a clockmaker.

Stein is also home to a show dairy. The various processes of cheesemaking can be watched from a gallery above the churns and vats.