Which natural zone predominates in Australia. Characteristics of natural areas of Australia
What associations first arise when a person hears the word “Switzerland”? Watches, cheese, chocolate, penknives, banks, mountains, alpine meadows... and, perhaps, that’s all. But this country is very curious and unusual. In this article we will look at some interesting facts about Switzerland.
A little about the country
Switzerland is a very unique state, small even by European standards, which, however, contains a lot of interesting and unusual things. According to the inhabitants of this country, its main asset is nature: eternal glaciers, mountain ranges, alpine meadows, blue lakes and waterfalls. Here, in a relatively small area, there are 1,484 lakes. Many of them are of glacial origin - these are reservoirs of unique beauty and transparency. This can be judged even from the photos given in the article. Switzerland is unusual in that no matter where you are in the country, a maximum of twenty kilometers from you will be a beautiful lake suitable for swimming. Mountains occupy two-thirds of its territory. In this regard, the state we are considering is recognized as the most mountainous in Europe. Approximately 14 percent of the country's area is occupied by nature reserves and parks in which pristine nature has been preserved.
Political structure
Even considering political structure this country, you can find interesting facts about Switzerland. It turns out that it is the only confederation state in the world. This has been the case for a long time. In the Middle Ages it actually had a confederal structure. Modern Switzerland is actually a federal republic. Another interesting fact is that this country does not officially have a capital. However, this function is performed by the city of Bern. In Switzerland, the president is elected for a one-year term. And, what is most interesting, he is appointed in rotation, from seven members of the federal council.
Socio-political situation
This country has four official languages: French, German, Italian and The rarest language in Switzerland is Romansh, spoken by less than one percent of the country's population. Despite the fact that this state is located in and is not a member of the European Union, there are a huge number of offices and headquarters of various international organizations located here, including the Red Cross, UN, WHO, WTO, FIFA, FIBA, CERN, IOC and others.
Referendums in Switzerland
Another interesting fact is that the country’s legislation allows for a referendum to be held every Sunday. However, in practice they are carried out only a few times a year. As a result of one such referendum, the construction of new minarets was prohibited in the state. There are only six such architectural structures in Switzerland. However, they cannot perform their main function (announcing the collection for prayer), as this will lead to a violation
Let's look at some interesting information about this country.
1. Switzerland is located in the middle part of Western Europe and has no access to the sea, but has a very large fleet. Home Lake Geneva Navigation Company is the owner the largest number ships of inland waters of Europe.
2. Military service is compulsory for all men in the country under the age of thirty. Its duration is 260 days, but they are distributed over ten years. According to the law, you can “opt out” of service; to do this, you will have to transfer three percent of all your income to the state fund for 30 years.
3. In Switzerland before the appearance mobile phones Singing without words - yodeling - was used as a means of communication.
4. In Geneva, on the embankment, there is the largest flower clock on the planet. Their dial has a diameter of five meters and consists of 6.5 thousand fresh flowers.
5. In order to cut down a tree in Switzerland, you must obtain a special permit, even if the plant grows on your own plot of land.
6. Porcini mushrooms grow in abundance in this country, but no one collects or eats them.
There's a lot to learn here
By collecting interesting facts about Switzerland, you can also note its achievements.
1. This state has built: the world’s highest concrete dam (285 meters), the longest tunnel on the planet (57 kilometers) and the highest suspended suspension dam on the continent cable car(3820 meters).
2. Despite the fact that the country of Switzerland is two-thirds mountainous, it is known for its export of milk and cheese. It is originally a peasant state, but produces the best watch movements in the world. Just one hundred and fifty years ago, Switzerland was one of the poorest countries Europe, and today it is the kingdom of global banking corporations.
3. The citizens of this country are considered the most inventive in the world. After all, there are 2,286 patents per million inhabitants in Switzerland. The closest competitors are the Dutch - 1427 patents; South Koreans - 1139 patents; and the Japanese - 1118 patents.
4. The average salary here is 5,000 francs (3,900 US dollars), and the minimum is 3,500 francs (2,700 dollars). Inflation in this country does not exceed one percent per year.
5. Medicine in Switzerland is very modern and of very high quality, but it is paid and includes compulsory insurance. According to citizens of this country who visited the level medical care is at the Stone Age level compared to the “homeland of cheese”.
Switzerland: interesting facts for children
Children in Switzerland start attending school at the age of four, but study only four days a week. Interesting fact is free higher education not only for citizens of the country, but also for foreigners. Swiss private schools are considered the best in the world. Tuition here costs from 25 thousand per year (800 thousand rubles).
A little about the lakes
1. Lake Leman (Geneva) is the second largest in Europe.
2. Lucerne, or Vierwaldstättersee. This lake is, without a doubt, the most picturesque in the country. It is surrounded by mountain peaks covered with a white blanket, and magnificent emerald forests stretch along its banks.
3. Lake Lugansk is located in the south of the country, on the border with Italy.
4. Maggiore-Locarno. This lake is characterized by mild Mediterranean climate, as well as lush vegetation and Italian landscape.
5. Murten is a small calm body of water with a regular oval shape. It is a favorite vacation spot for residents of surrounding towns.
6. Lakes Brienz and Thun. These stunningly beautiful reservoirs are located in the very center of Switzerland, in the foothills of the Alps. All conditions have been created here for active sports: alpine skiing, windsurfing, sailing. On Lake Brienz there is a stunning Giessbach waterfall, which falls from glaciers directly into the reservoir.
7. Neuchâtel reservoir. This beautiful mountain lake, framed by the low peaks of the Jura, is located in the western part of the country, in the Clock Valley, close to the French border.
8. Zurich reservoir. This is not the most big lake However, on its shore is located Switzerland itself, which is the financial and economic capital of the country.
This amazing Switzerland
1. Mountains. The geographical map of Switzerland shows 48 peaks that rise to an altitude of 4000 meters - the most of any alpine country. Many different records are associated with these monumental natural structures. For example, here is the highest railway station in Europe - Jungfraujoch (3454 meters); the coolest funiculars, mountain trains and, of course, the longest glacier in Europe - Aletsch (23 kilometers).
2. The slowest train on Earth. The panoramic Glacier Express covers 291 kilometers in eight hours. Its average speed is 42 kilometers per hour. Despite this, passengers hardly have time to capture all the beauty of the wondrous country. On its way, the express rises to a height of 2033 meters, overcomes 91 tunnels and 291 bridges.
3. Sparkling holiday. Zurich hosts Europe's largest indoor Christmas market every year. There is a Christmas tree here, which is decorated with more than seven thousand Swarovski crystals. At the market you can buy original gifts, handmade souvenirs, and delicious treats.
4. No smog. Switzerland has twelve ski resorts. The movement of motor vehicles is strictly prohibited on them. Here, even city services use electric cars.
5. Hotter. Switzerland has the highest and largest thermal spa resort - Leukerbad. Every day, more than 3.9 million liters of water is pumped into thirty local swimming pools, the temperature of which is 51 degrees Celsius.
Shopping
In the minds of a huge number of people, Switzerland is associated with cheese and watches. And, of course, people come here to make sure that the Swiss cheese is the most delicious and the watches are the most accurate. It would hardly be an exaggeration to say that this is so.
Tourists can try Swiss cheeses and dishes based on them in any corner of the country. But many people go to Geneva specifically to buy watches and jewelry. By the way, original products can be bought here on any central street.
The spring months in Switzerland are especially attractive for those who love to purchase designer items. The fact is that it is at this time that many manufacturers offer discounts (up to 70%!) on their goods - from clothes to souvenirs. You can buy things from famous designers in Ticino, in the south of the country.
Among the largest shopping centers are Shop Ville (Zurich) and Fox Town Faktory (Mendrisio). The latter is the largest shopping complex in Europe.
Shopping in Bern will give you great pleasure. In shopping boulevards up to 6 kilometers long you can find everything from souvenirs to cakes.
As for the store opening hours, you will have to get used to it. Firstly, most institutions are closed on Sunday. On Saturday, the working day usually lasts up to 16 hours. Shops close earlier on Wednesday, especially in rural areas, but on Thursday they work longer - until about 21:00. The Swiss are quite strict with lunch: from 12:00 to 14:00 most institutions are closed.
Gas stations are beyond competition: open every day from 08:00 to 22:00. True, food and drinks are more expensive here.
Transport
The largest international airports in Switzerland are in Zurich, Basel and Geneva. They are serviced by the Swiss company Swiss.
In general, transport links in Switzerland are one of the densest. Trains depart approximately every half hour. Large cities have a very dense network of buses and trams. Most metro lines in Switzerland are similar to our tram lines: they run above ground. It was only in 2008 that the first underground metro opened in Lausanne.
Intercity transportation is also organized flawlessly. Even remote settlements regularly require buses. You can get to any place in the city and country quickly, easily and using the transport that you prefer.
Ferries ply on the numerous lakes of Switzerland exactly on schedule. There are cable cars in the mountains: not only very convenient, but also exciting!
In general, transport in this country works - pardon the pun - like a Swiss watch.
As for roads, traveling in your own car can also bring considerable pleasure. At least because of the landscapes that stretch around. In addition, one cannot complain about the quality of coverage and infrastructure. Important role play roads that pass through mountain passes.
An important point: in order to drive a car on some highways, your car must be equipped with a special ticket. You can buy it when entering Switzerland, at customs. It costs around $30. The permissible speed on highways is 120 km/h, up to 80 km/h outside populated areas, up to 50 km/h in populated areas. There are video cameras on all roads that help catch violators, so be careful. By the way, you can be convicted for speeding in Switzerland. You can pay a fine even for exceeding the speed limit by 5 km/h.
Helpful advice: do not drive in sunglasses. The fact is that there are a lot of tunnels on the roads of Switzerland. If you enter a tunnel on a sunny day, you will find yourself in pitch darkness, which is unsafe for you and, possibly, for the vehicle moving towards you.
Connection
Communications in Switzerland, as you may have guessed, also work smoothly. Moreover, modern public telephones open up very unusual opportunities for many tourists. So, they have a touch screen through which you can not only make a call, send email or look through the telephone directory, but also order train tickets.
Concerning mobile communications, then the GSM standard is used here.
Internet access can be found everywhere: in public places or in a virtual cafe - for free or for a couple of francs.
Post offices are open on weekdays (Monday-Friday) from 07:30 to 18:30 (lunch - from 12:00 to 13:30). Most hotel lobbies have one or two computers connected to the Internet that you can use.
Safety
Tourists intending to spend a holiday in Switzerland with accommodation in rented accommodation or a hotel require a tourist visa. To receive it, you need to submit the following documents: a foreign passport and a copy of its first page, a completed application form with a signature and photograph, an original and a copy of a round-trip ticket, confirmation of prepayment for housing, confirmation of the availability of funds. In some cases, the Embassy may require other documents.
Switzerland is considered a safe country, and yet experts recommend getting insurance, which can save you from paying impressive sums for emergency medical care (you never know). And if your property is stolen, insurance will help compensate for the damage.
In general, the crime rate in Switzerland is very low. However, you should still be wary of pickpockets, especially during high season or during exhibitions and conferences. It is recommended to be especially careful at train stations and during night train trips.
In case of theft, immediately contact the police station for a report. It is better to always have your passport with you if you want to avoid problems with the police. By the way, the representatives of the law here are not distinguished by their angelic character.
The level of road safety in this country is also very high. However, winding mountain roads can pose an increased danger, especially during summer and winter holidays when workload increases.
Business
Switzerland is richest country peace. In addition, it is one of the most important financial centers in the world: a huge number of branches of foreign banks operate here. The secret of the reliability of Swiss banks is simple: they are located in a country with a stable economic and legal system, and therefore cannot go bankrupt.
It seems completely logical that a country with such a status annually hosts international conferences and exhibitions, which attract tens and hundreds of thousands of people from different parts of the planet. Thus, the most popular exhibitions are: FESPO ZURICH (“Recreation, Travel, Sports”), SICHERHEIT (“International Safety Fair”), IGEHO (“International Exhibition of the Supply Industry, Hotel and Restaurant Business”), Internationaler Automobil-Salon Genf ( “International Automobile Salon”), Blickfang Basel (“Exhibition of Furniture, Jewelry and Fashion Design”) and many others. Conferences on political, financial, banking, industrial and cultural issues are regularly held here.
Real estate
Switzerland has long been considered one of the most closed countries for property buyers from abroad. It is impossible to buy real estate here if you do not have a category B residence permit (which means a permanent visa extension for 10 years). Moreover, the buyer is also obliged to comply with the rules of the state “game”: the purchased property cannot be used for commercial purposes. A foreigner is allowed to use housing only for his own needs, with a residence time limit of 6 months a year. You can live in this house permanently only by obtaining a residence permit in this country. At the same time, there is still a limitation on area.
Houses and apartments in Switzerland are very expensive, and the country's real estate market has demonstrated its stability even during the crisis. Experts even noted a slight increase in prices for a number of objects.
The cost of housing in Switzerland depends on many factors. One of the most important is location. So, a small apartment in Villars, in a residential complex, can be purchased for some 60 thousand euros. Apartments in more expensive resorts can cost from 150 thousand to 800 thousand euros (this depends on the area and view from the window). Those who have more serious means and are looking for privacy in the lap of nature and huge personal space, of course, choose luxury villas and chalets. Such housing will cost about 5-8 million euros.
Contrary to popular belief, traveling in Switzerland is no more expensive than traveling in Germany or Italy. It’s just that the Swiss understand very well that “good money” equals “good service”. In this country, tourists always get what they pay for.
If you want to spend as little as possible, then the best option is to live at a camp site, cook by yourself, travel short distances and only by bicycle. With such a vacation, you can spend about $30 per day. You won't spend much more if you eat at fast food restaurants or student canteens at universities: lunch there is relatively inexpensive ($7-9).
Comfortable conditions within reason - a three-star hotel or inn - will cost about $100 per day. Eating out can make a big difference on your wallet. By the way, tips there (+15%) are included in the bill. The same applies to the cost of taxi services.
A visit to a museum or an acquaintance with some attraction will cost about $4. You will spend about the same amount to move around the city using public transport.
Visa information
Citizens of the CIS and the Russian Federation require a visa to travel to Switzerland, which is part of the Schengen countries. A short-term Schengen visa (category C) can be tourist (when booking a hotel or a tour around the country), guest (when visiting relatives or friends), business (if necessary, meetings with business partners) and transit (when traveling in transit to those countries that are not Schengen members).
In addition, the Swiss Embassy issues study visas for people going to study for a period of more than 90 days, and work visas for people who are employed.
The Swiss Embassy in Moscow is located at: per. Ogorodnaya Sloboda, 2/5. You can also contact the Consulate General in St. Petersburg (Chernyshevsky Ave., 17) or the Visa Department of the Embassy (Moscow, Prechistenskaya embankment, 31).
Story
The history of Switzerland dates back to the 12th millennium BC. It was then that the territory covered with eternal snow, under the pressure of global warming, began to become free of ice. Gradually the white cover changed to green, and the “revived” earth found its first inhabitants from the human race.
In ancient times, Switzerland was inhabited by the Celtic tribes of the Helvetii, hence its ancient name - Helvetia. Around the 1st century BC, after the campaigns of Julius Caesar, the country was conquered by the Romans and acquired world fame. In the 5th century AD, during the era of the Great Migration, it was captured by the Alemanni, Burgundians and Ostrogoths; in the 6th century - the Franks. In the 11th century, Switzerland became part of the “Holy Roman Empire of the German Nation.”
Initially the Swiss were not one nation, Switzerland itself was a union of communities (cantons) striving for self-government. At the beginning of August 1291, the peasants of the forest cantons of Schwyz, Uri and Unterwalden, living on the shores of Lake Firwaldstät, entered into an alliance with each other and swore an oath to help each other in the fight against the rule of the Habsburg dynasty; in a stubborn struggle they defended their independence. The Swiss celebrate this joyful event to this day: August 1 - National holiday Switzerland - fireworks and fireworks light up the Swiss sky in memory of events more than seven centuries ago.
For two centuries, Swiss troops defeated the feudal armies of dukes, kings and kaisers. Provinces and cities began to join the original union. The united allies sought to expel the Habsburgs, gradually expanding their borders. In 1499, after the victory over Kaiser Maximilian I of Habsburg, Switzerland was freed from imperial rule. In 1513, there were already 13 cantons in the union. Each canton was absolutely sovereign - there was no general army, no common constitution, no capital, no central government. In the 16th century, a severe crisis occurred in Switzerland. The reason for this was a schism in the Christian church. Geneva and Zurich became centers of activity for the Protestant reformers Calvin and Zwingli. In 1529, a religious war began in Switzerland. Only serious danger, coming from outside, prevented the complete collapse of the state. In 1798, the French invaded Switzerland and transformed it into the unitary Helvetic Republic. For fifteen years the country was under their rule. The situation changed only in 1815, when the Swiss introduced their own constitution with equal rights for 22 sovereign cantons. In the same year, the Vienna Peace Congress recognized the “permanent neutrality” of Switzerland and defined its borders, which are still inviolable. However, the unity of the union of cantons was not reliably ensured by the organization of a sufficiently strong central government. Only under the constitution of 1948 did the fragile union turn into a single state - federal Switzerland.
National characteristics
Switzerland is a highly developed country with intensive agriculture. It is the largest exporter of capital, the financial center of the capitalist world. Swiss banks are the most reliable. Perhaps this is explained by the fact that the country has never joined any blocs. It was and remains a stable country in Europe.
In Switzerland, four languages are spoken and written: German (various local dialects of Swiss German and literary High German are spoken by 65% of the population), French (18%), Italian (mainly one of the Lombard dialects, 12%), and in Romansh (in five different dialects). Having the opportunity to study all the languages of the country at school, every Swiss, as a rule, understands them, although he is not always able to express himself in all of them.
The Swiss are very religious: according to the 1980 census, about 50% profess Protestant faith, 44% are Catholic, 6% adhere to other religions or atheism. Traveling around Switzerland, one cannot help but notice the world-famous virtue of the Swiss - the love of cleanliness and order. They are cleaning the streets with a vacuum cleaner! James Joyce once remarked that soup here can be eaten without plates, straight from the pavement. In Switzerland, it is impossible to pass by Swiss watches, which have become the embodiment of precision, elegance, and a kind of world standard. For this small country, watches have become the most prestigious and significant export.
Culture
In Eastern Switzerland there is the Rhine Falls (average water flow - 1100 cubic meters per second). The city of Schaffhausen is located near the waterfall. This part of the country abounds in variegated flower carpets: alpine rose (rhododendron), edelweiss, saxifrage, prolomnik. Most of the plants are perennial herbs and shrubs. Their flowers are relatively large and bright; both flowers and plants themselves are often fragrant. Small towns and villages with an unobtrusive charm fit perfectly into such a natural landscape. In Central Switzerland you can admire Mount Pilatus - a favorite vacation spot for both residents of the country and foreign tourists.
Switzerland - amazing country. It contains both the beauty of nature and outstanding creations of human hands in a small space. At every step there are traces of various civilizations. The ruins in Nyon and Avenches are reminiscent of the Romans, in particular the amphitheater for 10,000 visitors. In Basel, Geneva and Lausanne, a variety of Romanesque and Gothic architectural monuments attract attention. The Castello di Montebello fortress from the Renaissance has been preserved - one of the places of pilgrimage for tourists. The Baroque is richly represented, mainly in the monasteries of Einsiedeln, Engelberg and the churches of Kreuzlingen and Arlesheim.
The architectural appearance of the city of Schaffhausen is dominated by Baroque and Rococo, and the oldest surviving buildings date back to the late Gothic period. Along a path paved with stones you can climb to the ancient fortress of Munot. The center of Eastern Switzerland is the city of St. Gallen, which, according to legend, owed its birth to the Irish monk Gallus. During the construction of the monastery, Gallus was helped by a bear; his image can be seen today on the city coat of arms. The famous cathedral in St. Gallen and the monastery library are considered the main monuments of the Baroque style in Switzerland.
The cultural life of the country is diverse and rich. Every big city has its own theater and symphony orchestra. The most famous musical theaters are the Opera House in Zurich, the Grand Theater in Geneva and the Basel City Theater. Summer in Switzerland is the time for festivals; they take place in Lausanne, Zurich, Montreux and many other cities. In addition to world-famous international music festivals, Lucerne hosts an annual carnival. The holiday always begins on Thursday and lasts until the first Wednesday of Lent.
Swiss cuisine
The cuisine of Switzerland enjoys well-deserved recognition among gourmets all over the world, and the Swiss themselves at home are by no means shy away from Lucullean delights. So, the favorite pastime of Zurich residents is walking around restaurants and cafes, and if they praise you about one of the eateries, you can safely go there. The local cuisine has been strongly influenced by its neighbors, primarily the “older French cousin” and Italian cuisine, as well as the purely Swabian table, but still it has enough of its own delicacies that are widespread in other countries. A typical Swiss dish is the famous fondue, which is best enjoyed when it is cold outside and raining or snowing. Then sit comfortably in front of the fireplace and, pricking pieces of bread crumb onto a long fork, dip them in the melted cheese. It is best to drink this delicacy with white wine or tea.
Another famous cheese dish that has become widespread is raclette from Wallis. The very name of the dish (“raclette” (French) - large grater) reveals the principle of its preparation. The cheese is grated on a coarse grater or broken into small pieces, heated and served with potatoes. However, to enjoy the taste and aroma of cheese, it is not necessary to reheat it. The best example is Emmental (more often called Swiss) and Appenzell cheeses, which enjoy well-deserved recognition among gourmets, as well as Grayerz cheese. Vacherin, which is prepared only in winter, and Schabziger, a cheese with herbs from Glernerland, have an exquisite taste and aroma.
Among the Ticino delicacies we should mention, first of all, small soft formagini cheeses, which are made from cottage cheese, as well as various varieties of mountain cheese, the most famous of which is Piora. Another famous Swiss delicacy is Zurich schnitzel (veal in cream sauce). Those who like to eat heartily prefer the Berner Platte - a dish made from... sauerkraut with beans and fried potatoes. Bern is also considered the birthplace of the famous Rosti - thinly sliced fried potatoes with cracklings.
Now is the time to think about soups, for example, Basel flour soup, barley soup from Bünden or Busekka - Ticin tripe soup. The national dish of sunny southern Switzerland is, of course, polenta, a dish of corn grits with cream and pieces of fruit. To the south of Saint Gotthard, risotto is a favorite - a rice dish prepared Milanese style (with saffron), with mushrooms or peasant style (with vegetables).
The menu of Swiss cuisine also includes fish dishes: rudd, trout, pike and aigli (freshwater perch), which are prepared differently everywhere. Late autumn and in winter, in many restaurants you can taste game delicacies, such as the back of roe deer. And another delicacy, famous on both sides of the Swiss border, deserves your attention. This is Bünden meat, dried beef, cut into thin slices. Those who first tasted it in Valais, and not in Graubünden, call this dish “Welsh-style meat.”
The Alpine republic is famous for its wines. White wines are widely known - “Dezaley” and “St.-Saphorin”, “Fendant” and “Johannisberg”, “Twanner”. The best varieties red wines - exquisitely fine “Rose der CEil-de-Perdrix”, strong “Dole”, “Pinot Noir” and “Merlot”. But perhaps the best Bünden wines are made in the Italian town of Veltalin, which since 1815 has become the Swiss canton of Grisons. “Sassella”, “Grumello”, “Inferno” - these are the names of strong ruby-red wines that owe their luxurious bouquet to the generous southern sun. All that remains is to say a few words about all kinds of sweets served for dessert, afternoon tea, and evening coffee. These include fruit pies, Zug cherry cake, carrot cake, Engadine nut cake, and of course, the famous Swiss chocolate.
Economy
Switzerland is one of the most developed and richest countries in the world. Switzerland is a highly developed industrial country with intensive, highly productive agriculture and an almost complete absence of any mineral resources. According to Western economists, it is among the top ten countries in the world in terms of economic competitiveness. The Swiss economy is closely connected with the outside world, primarily with EU countries, through thousands of threads of industrial cooperation and foreign trade transactions. OK. 80-85% of Switzerland's trade turnover is with EU countries. More than 50% of all cargo from the northern part of Western Europe to the south and to reverse direction. After noticeable growth in 1998-2000. The country's economy entered a recession. In 2002, GDP grew by 0.5% to CHF 417 billion. fr. Inflation was at 0.6%. The unemployment rate reached 3.3%. The economy employs approx. 4 million people (57% of the population), of which: in industry - 25.8%, including in mechanical engineering - 2.7%, in the chemical industry - 1.7%, in agriculture and forestry - 4.1% , in the service sector - 70.1%, including in trade - 16.4%, in banking and insurance - 5.5%, in the hotel and restaurant business - 6.0%. The policy of neutrality allowed us to avoid the devastation of two world wars.
Policy
Switzerland is a federal republic. The current constitution was adopted in 1999. The federal authorities are in charge of issues of war and peace, foreign relations, army, railways, communications, money issue, approval federal budget etc.
The head of the country is the president, elected every year on a rotation basis from among the members of the Federal Council.
The highest legislative body is the bicameral parliament - the Union Assembly, consisting of the National Council and the Council of Cantons (Chambers of equal rights).
The National Council (200 deputies) is elected by the population for a 4-year term using a system of proportional representation.
The federal structure and constitution of Switzerland were enshrined in the constitutions of 1848, 1874 and 1999.
Now Switzerland is a federation of 26 cantons (20 cantons and 6 half-cantons). Until 1848 (except for the short period of the Helvetic Republic), Switzerland was a confederation). Each canton has its own constitution and laws, but their rights are limited by the federal constitution. Legislative power belongs to Parliament, and executive power belongs to the Federal Council (government).
There are 46 deputies in the Canton Council, who are elected by the population using a majority system of relative majority in 20 two-mandate districts and 6 single-mandate districts, that is, 2 people each. from each canton and one from half-canton for 4 years (in some cantons - for 3 years).
All laws adopted by parliament can be approved or rejected in a popular (optional) referendum. To do this, after the adoption of the law, 50 thousand signatures must be collected within 100 days.
The right to vote is granted to all citizens over 18 years of age.
The highest executive power belongs to the government - the Federal Council, consisting of 7 members, each of whom heads one of the departments (ministries). Members of the Federal Council are elected at a joint meeting of both chambers of parliament. All members of the Federal Council alternately hold the positions of President and Vice President.
The foundations of the Swiss state were laid in 1291. Until the end of the 18th century, there were no central government agencies, but all-Union councils - tagzatzung - were convened periodically.
SWISS CONFEDERATION
Motto:"Unus pro omnibus omnes pro uno." (Latin: “One for all, all for one.”)
Name: from the name of one of the three original cantons - Schwyz, derived from the Old German word “to burn”. The Latin name of the country is often found - Helvetia (Confoederatio Helvetica)
Location: Western Europe
Capital: Berne
The European headquarters of the UN has been located in Geneva since 1946 (and Switzerland itself only joined the UN in 2002)
Lausanne was elected Olympic capital in 1994. Lausanne is not only the headquarters of the IOC, but also of various international sports federations.
The president: Eveline Widmer-Schlumpf
Timezone
Central European time UTC+1 (difference with Moscow 3 hours),
But between 1:00 last Sunday in March and 1:00 last Sunday in October: Central European summer time UTC+2 (difference from Moscow 2 hours)
Currency
Swiss franc (CHF, code 756)
Sellers can accept euros, but are not required to do so. You will most likely receive your change in Swiss francs.
Currency exchange: Banks (open 8.30–16.30), airports, railway stations big cities, most hotels.
Telephone code: +41
From Switzerland to Russia: dial - 00 - 7 - (code) - subscriber number
There are three operators in Switzerland cellular communications GSM standard: Swisscom, Sunrise, Orange.
Internet domain:.ch Large number of Wi-Fi access points. Free Wi-Fi: in hotel lobbies, restaurants, and sometimes in tourist areas. Payment can be made by plastic cards or provider cards. Regular access is at Swisscom phone kiosks and internet cafes.
Territory: 41,284 km² (132nd in the world)
Borders: with Germany (in the north), with Italy (in the south), with France (in the west), with Austria and Liechtenstein (in the east).
Mountains
Switzerland is considered the most mountainous country in Europe.
The Alps occupy 61% of the entire territory of Switzerland. These include the Pennine Alps, the Lepontine Alps, the Rhaetian Alps and the Bernina Massif. The Pennine Alps include the country's highest point, Peak Dufour (4,634 m), and the country's most famous mountain, the Matterhorn, a real symbol of Switzerland, emblazoned on the Toblerone chocolate emblem. The Rhone and Rhine, flowing in deep valleys, separate the Pennine and Lepontine Alps from the Bernese Alps (with the 4,274 m high Finsteraarhorn) and the Glarn Alps.
Peaked alpine ridges are often covered with glaciers. In total, there are about 140 large valley (the 24-kilometer Great Aletsch glacier is the largest glacier in the Alps), cirque and hanging glaciers.
The main passes are laid through the ridges at an altitude of above 2000 meters above sea level: Great St. Bernard, Simplon, St. Gotthard, Bernina.
Nowadays, the Alps have become a real mecca for thousands of lovers active rest. The best ski and recreational resorts in Switzerland - Davos, St. Moritz, Zermatt, Interlaken, Leukerbad - attract a huge number of tourists every year.
The Alpine resorts have become famous for their tourist attractions. This is the highest railway station in Europe, Jungfraujoch at 3454 m above sea level and the highest brewery in Europe in Monstein at 1600 m.
The Jura mountain range in the north of the country occupies 10% of the territory. The wooded ridges of these mountains extend beyond the country's borders - into the territory of France and Germany. The highest point of these mountains is Mont Tendre.
In the center of the country is the Swiss Plateau, almost the entire territory of which exceeds 500 meters above sea level.
Forests cover approximately a quarter of Switzerland's territory. Mainly oak and beech, and sometimes pine groves, they grow in mountains, valleys and plateaus.
Chestnut trees are often found on the southern slopes of the Alps. A little higher into the mountains coniferous forests rise, which are replaced even higher by alpine meadows. Here a lush floral carpet appears, dazzling with the brightness of its colors. These include spring crocuses and daffodils, and summer rhododendrons, saxifrages, gentians and edelweiss. Further towards the top, the rocky peaks will be covered only by mosses and lichens, while at the foot of the mountains Mediterranean palms and mimosas will bask in the rays of the sun.
Regular visitors to the mountain paths are snow partridge and mountain hare. In recent decades, it has become more difficult to see roe deer, marmot or chamois in the mountains. To protect them, as well as to protect species such as deer, alpine ibex, fox, and ptarmigan, special measures are taken. The Swiss National Park was created.
Rivers and lakes
Switzerland has no access to the sea and is rightfully considered a storehouse of water. 6% of all the fresh water in Europe is concentrated here, and it is in the Swiss Alps that rivers such as the Rhine, Rhone, and Inn originate, carrying their waters to the North, Mediterranean and Black Seas. Swiss river valleys are very picturesque. Waterfalls are often found in the mountains. For example, the largest in Europe, the Rhine Falls, the highest Mürrenbach Falls, and the Reichenbach Falls, notorious as the place of death of Sherlock Holmes.
The longest rivers in Switzerland are:
Rhine, Are, Rhone, Reus, Limmat, Zane, Tours, Inn, Ticino, Emme, Doubs, Beers.
But truly extraordinary beauty is possessed by numerous lakes of switzerland. The most beautiful of them were sung by famous poets and artists. As a rule, they are surrounded by picturesque parks with subtropical vegetation and ancient palaces. Since Swiss lakes are of glacial origin, they are usually elongated and quite deep.
Beautiful sandy beaches stretch along the shores of the lakes, because the water temperature in some lakes reaches +25°C. Diversity natural landscapes Switzerland is the cause of another interesting phenomenon. Under the influence of soils and vegetation, the waters of the lakes are painted in all sorts of colors of the rainbow.
Vessels of 15 shipping companies sail on the water surface of the lakes.
There are 1484 lakes in Switzerland.
The largest among them
Lake Geneva (cantons of Geneva, Vaud, Valais) - the largest lake in the Alps - is protected on all sides by mountains from cold winds, so a very warm microclimate has formed here. Even palm trees grow in the famous resort of Montreux.
Lake Constance (cantons St. Gallen, Thurgau)
Lake Neuchâtel (cantons Bern, Friborg, Neuchâtel, Vaud) - largest lake, located entirely in Switzerland.
Lago Maggiore (canton of Ticino)
Lake Vierwaldstät (cantons of Lucerne, Nidwalden, Obwalden, Schwyz, Uri)
Lake Zurich (cantons St. Gallen, Schwyz, Zurich)
Lugano (canton of Ticino)
Lake Thun (Canton of Bern)
Lake Biel (cantons Bern, Neuchâtel)
Lake Zug (cantons Lucerne, Schwyz, Zug)
Lake Brienz (Canton of Bern)
Lake Wallenstadt (cantons Glarus, St. Gallen)
Lake Murten (cantons Friborg, Vaud)
Lake Sempach (Canton of Lucerne)
Lake Schwyz (Canton of Schwyz)
Lake Hallwil (cantons Aargau, Lucerne)
Gruyères (canton of Friborg)
Joux (canton of Vaud)
Lake Greifensee (canton of Zurich)
Sarner Lake (Canton Obwalden)
Aigeri (canton of Zug)
Baldeg (canton of Lucerne)
But most lakes are quite small. However
Lake Cauma (canton of Graubünden, there are 637 mountain lakes in the canton) is known as the warmest in Switzerland above 1000 m above sea level
Lake Silser (canton of Graubünden) is the highest European lake on which official navigation takes place (1800 meters above sea level)
Climate
Mountains create great diversity in Switzerland climatic zones, each valley, depending on the altitude above sea level, has unique weather conditions. However, in general the Central European continental climate predominates. In summer temperatures are usually from +20° to +25°, and in winter - from +1° to +6°.
The climate of the canton of Ticino is close to the Mediterranean.
The West of the country is influenced Atlantic Ocean. In Geneva, the average temperatures in July are about +19°, in January -3°. Strong north and south winds predominate.
At the same time, winters in mountainous areas are cold. Average temperature is −10° and below.
In winter, a strong, warm Föhn wind blows in Switzerland, giving its name to a popular consumer electronics device.
Tourism
Switzerland has traditionally been distinguished by its high development of tourism. A well-developed tourist infrastructure, high-class hotels, excellent railways and roads, and, of course, the amazing nature that has made Switzerland a household name, as well as cultural monuments: witnesses to the glorious past of a freedom-loving people - all this ensures an endless flow of tourists from all over the world.
Alpine skiing and mountaineering are extremely popular in Switzerland. Davos, St. Moritz and Zermatt are among the best ski resorts in the world. Soft snow, wide slopes, breathtaking scenery, coupled with Swiss quality service have turned Switzerland into one of the... best destinations winter holidays. It should be noted that there are excellent ski schools. In the area where the glaciers are located, skiing is possible all year round.
Switzerland is a paradise for lovers hiking. The diverse landscape made it possible to create more than 180 routes of varying difficulty: from walks along the shores of lakes to difficult treks along mountain gorges or glaciers. Clearly marked hiking trails are cleared of snow in winter.
Switzerland is a country of bicycles. There are 3,300 kilometers of bike paths suitable for all skill levels. Nine national cycling routes are united in the Veloland Schweiz Project. Bicycles can be rented inexpensively at most train stations and can be returned elsewhere. In some cities you can rent a bicycle for free with a cash deposit or document.
Climbing has been booming in Switzerland in recent years.
Almost every Swiss hotel has its own tennis court, and there are more than fifty excellent golf courses in the country. In many cities, including hotels, many indoor and outdoor swimming pools, including heated ones, have been built. In addition to beautiful beaches, the Swiss lakes are also popular for a huge number of sports entertainment. These include yachting and sailing, water skiing and windsurfing. To this must be added rafting, canoeing, hang gliding, parachute jumping and horse riding. All this speaks volumes about high level development of sports in Switzerland.
Population
Population 7,700,200 people. (98th in the world)
Historically, different peoples, languages and religious movements coexist in Switzerland. Swiss concept displays general history, culture, and a unified civic identity. But such a people and language do not exist.
Major peoples of Switzerland
German-Swiss (65%, cantons: Bern, Zurich, Uri, Schwyz, Obwalden, Nidwalden, Glarus, Zug, Lucerne, Solothurn, Basel-Stadt, Basel-Lands, Schaffhausen, Appenzell-Ausserrhoden, Appenzell-Innerrhoden, St. Gallen, Aargau , Thurgau, in the cantons of Graubünden - 68%, Fribourg - 29%, Valais - 28% of the total population) speak the literary German language and its Swiss variant: Alemannic.
The French-Swiss (18%, cantons: Vaud, Neuchâtel, Geneva, Jura, in the cantons of Friborg - 63%, Valais 62%, of the total population) use the official French, and its regional variant is Arpitan (Fraco-Provençal) language.
The Italian-Swiss (10%, canton of Ticino) use the official Italian language and the closely related Lombard language.
Romansh peoples: Romanches and Ladins (1%, in the canton of Grisons - 14.5% of the total population). They speak Romansh and Latin.
German, French, Italian and Romansh are the national and official languages of the Swiss Confederation.
There is an imaginary border between German-speaking and French-speaking Switzerland - Röstigraben ("potato ditch." Rösti is the national dish of the canton of Bern made from grated potatoes).
Religion
The Reformation left Switzerland with a rather motley religious picture. Unlike many neighboring states, no one side has gained the upper hand here. Until the 19th century. Cantons with different religions waged a fierce struggle with each other. Nowadays:
Catholics - 47% (cantons: Uri, Schwyz, Obwalden, Nidwalden, Zug, Lucerne, Appenzell-Innerrhoden, Fribourg, Valais, Jura, Ticino, in the cantons of St. Gallen, Geneva - 2/3, Solothurn, Aargau, Grisons - more than half, Zurich, Basel, Glarus, Appenzell-Ausserrhoden, Thurgau, Vaud, Neuchâtel - slightly less than half, Schaffhausen - 1/3 of the total population)
Protestants - 37% (cantons: Bern, in the cantons of Schaffhausen - 2/3, Zurich, Basel, Glarus, Appenzell-Ausserrhoden, Thurgau, Vaud, Neuchâtel - more than half, Solothurn, Aargau, Grisons - slightly less than half, St. Gallen, Geneva - 1/3 of the total population).
CANTONS (CAPITAL, LARGEST CITIES)
Canton | Capital | Big cities |
Berne | Berne |
Biel, Thun, Könitz, Ostermundingen, Steffisburg, Burgdorf |
Zurich | Zurich |
Winterthur, Uster, Dübendorf, Dietikon, Wetzikon, Waedenswil, Horgen, Kloten, Bülach, Volketzwil, Thalwil, Regensdorf, Adliswil, Schlieren, Illnau-Efretikon, Opfikon |
Uri | Altdorf | |
Schwyz | Schwyz | |
Obwalden | Sarnen | |
Nidwalden | Stans | |
Glarus | Glarus | |
Zug | Zug | Bar |
Lucerne | Lucerne | Emmen, Kriens |
Solothurn | Solothurn |
Olten, Grenchen |
Basel-Stadt | Basel | Rihen |
Basel-Lands | Liestal |
Allschwil, Reinach, Muttenz, Pratteln |
Schaffhausen | Schaffhausen | |
Appenzell-Ausserrhoden | Herisau | |
Appenzell-Innerrhoden | Appenzell | |
St. Gallen | St. Gallen |
Rapperswil-Jona, Wil, Gossau |
Grisons | Kur | Davos |
Aargau | Arau |
Wettingen, Baden |
Thurgau | Frauenfeld | Kreuzlingen |
Ticino | Bellinzona |
Lugano, Locarno |
In | Lausanne |
Yverdon-les-Bains, Montreux, Renin, Nyon, Vevey, Poulis, Villeneuve |
Valais | Sion |
Monte, Martigny, Sieur |
Neuchâtel | Neuchâtel | Chaux de Fonds |
Geneva | Geneva |
Vernier, Lancie, Merin, Carouge, Aunet |
Yura | Delemont | |
Fribourg | Fribourg | Bule |
Transport
Located in the center of Europe, Switzerland has a dense network of roads and railways. The transalpine railway connection opened in 1882 with the construction of the Gotthard Tunnel, followed by the Simplon Tunnel in 1906. The Lötschberg tunnel opened in 2007.
Railways
A total of 5,100 km of railway network are in use. Almost all Swiss railways are part of the nationwide SBB-CFF-FFS (Swiss Federal Railways) system. In addition, numerous narrow gauge railways are operated, the largest company of its kind being the Rhaetian Railways.
Urban commuter rail networks are concentrated in major cities countries including: Zurich, Geneva, Basel, Bern, Lausanne and Neuchâtel.
Lausanne is the only city with a metro system (Metro Lausanne), which includes two lines, the first of which is a light metro line, and the other is completely automated line metro - opened in 2008. After its opening, Lausanne became the smallest city in the world with a full-fledged metro system.
Mürren railway system
A train usually cannot climb very steep inclines, so many tracks must be built to gain height gradually. But transalpine communication became possible with the use of circular spiral tunnels. In conditions of extremely mountainous terrain, engineers opted for the more economical construction of a narrow gauge track.
The numerous railway viaducts of the Rhaetian Railway in the canton of Graubünden, mostly built in the early 20th century, have become a tourist attraction but retain the function of a much-needed transport system.
Some railways were built only for tourist purposes, like Gornergrat or Jungfraujoch, the highest station in Europe in the Bernese Alps, at 3454 meters.
The Alpin Metro in Saas-Fee is the highest underground cable car in the world. It leads to the highest revolving restaurant in the world and the world's largest ice grotto on Mount Mittelallalin (3,500 meters)
The highest cable car in Europe leads to the Klein Matterhorn (height 3,820 meters).
Motorways of Switzerland
Total: 71345.6 km
Swiss motorways have a general speed limit of 120 km/h. Speed limits in built-up areas are 50 km/h.
To travel on the "highest category" highway (free-way), indicated by green signboards, you need a "Vignette" coupon for payment of the annual toll. Payment is accepted at border checkpoints, post offices and gas stations.
Local buses cover the entire country. The Postauto system covers small towns and all areas where there is no railway network.
Air Transport
National carrier - Swiss International Air Lines
Zurich International Airport (Kloten Airport) is located in the city of Kloten (canton of Zurich) and is the largest international airport in Switzerland. In 2003, an automated metro was built to move passengers between the existing airport complex and the new terminal. Railroad station Zurich Airport (Zürich Flughafen) is located under the terminal. Trains go to various cities in Switzerland: Winterthur, Bern, Basel and Lucerne. However, once you arrive at Zurich train station, most other cities in Switzerland can be reached within a few hours.
Geneva Cointrin International Airport is the second largest in the country. Moreover, it has access to both the Swiss and French sides.
Basel-Mulhouse-Freiburg International Airport
Bern-Belp Airport
Water transport
lines on lakes:
Compagnie Générale de Navigation sur le lac Léman - on Lake Geneva
Zürichsee-Schifffahrtsgesellschaft on Lake Zurich
UNESCO World Heritage Sites (and Candidates)
Benedictine monastery of St. John in Müstair (canton of Grisons)
Monastery of St. Gall in St. Gallen
Old town in Bern
Bellinzona fortifications (canton of Ticino)
Region Jungfrau-Aletsch-Bichhorn (cantons Bern, Valais)
Mount Monte San Giorgio (canton of Ticino)
Terraced vineyards (canton of Vaud)
Tectonic group of Sardona (cantons of Glarus, Grisons, St. Gallen)
Rhaetian Railway (Canton of Graubünden)
La Chaux-de-Fonds and Le Locle (canton of Neuchâtel)
Prehistoric pile dwellings in the vicinity of the Alps (Cantons of Geneva, Vaud, St. Gallen)
Urban planning and architectural works of Le Corbusier: Villa Falle, Villa Villa Schwob, Jeanneret-Perret. (All in La Chaux-de-Fonds, canton of Neuchâtel), Villa Le Lac in Corso (canton of Vaud) (candidate)
Swiss culture
The culture of Switzerland arose and developed, on the one hand, in very close contact with neighboring German, French and Italian cultures, but, on the other hand, it was based on the deep originality and uniqueness of the traditions of each canton.
The fine arts of Switzerland are represented by sculpture; remarkable works in this genre were created by Hermann Haller.
The following artists worked in the painting genre: Franz Gertsch, Johann Ludwig Aberle, Daniel Spörri, Frank Buchser, Roman Siegner, Louis Moillier, Niklaus Manuel, Jean Renggli, Thomas Huber, Hans Asper.
German-language literature in Switzerland dates back to the liturgical drama of Christ's Resurrection and Christmas songs written by the monks of the Muri (Aargau) monastery in the 13th century. Somewhat later, these works began to appear in the monastery of St. Gall.
The 14th century saw the emergence of medieval court literature, such as the Codex Manes. The Swiss chronicle of Aegidius Tschudi dates back to the 16th century, which became the main material for Schiller’s drama William Tell.
In the 19th century, realism developed in the works of Jeremiah Gotthelf, Gottfried Keller and Conrad Ferdinand Meyer, their traditions are continued by Jakob Christoph Hehr and Joanna Spiri, the author of the famous story “Heidi” about an orphan girl living with her grandfather in the Swiss Alps.
In the second half of the 20th century, Friedrich Dürrenmatt, Max Frisch and Robert Walser raised Swiss German-language literature to the world level, and Karl Spitteler and Hermann Hesse were awarded the Nobel Prize.
French-language literature in Switzerland owes its appearance to John Calvin.
In the 19th century, Charles Didier, Henri Blancvalet, Louis Tournier, Philippe Gaudet, Alexandre Vinay and Charles Monnard wrote French.
Many of the writers of the 20th century are known all over the world: Charles Ferdinand Ramus, Philippe Jacotet, Corina Bij, Maurice Chappaz, Jeanne Hersh.
Swiss music
Derived from traditional yodeling, which originally originated as throat-calling among shepherds in the mountains. Liturgical music arose in the 10th century. In the Church of Valères in Sion you can see the oldest working organ in the world. In the 13th century, patriotic songs, shepherd's tunes and tunes on the Swiss folk instrument, the Alpine horn, became widespread. At the same time, minnesingers—lyric poets—came into fashion. They were replaced in the 15th century by professional composers, their works were published in Vienna and Copenhagen. In the 18th century, composers wrote trio sonatas and overtures, spiritual cantatas and pieces for organ, opera buffa and singspiel. At the end of the century, the choral movement was born.
In the 19th century, composers came to the fore: F. K. Schnyder von Wartense, F. T. Fröhlich, Baumgartner. The Geneva Conservatory was founded in 1835, and the Zurich Symphony Orchestra was founded in 1862.
Richard Wagner worked in Switzerland from 1849 to 1858. He conducted performances and symphony concerts. In the second half of the century, a new galaxy of composers came: F. Hegar, X. Huber, O. Barblan, F. Klose, I. Lauber.
In the 1910s, Switzerland became home to famous composers from different countries. I. F. Stravinsky writes “The Wedding” and “The Story of a Soldier” here, F. Busoni, S. V. Rachmaninov, R. Strauss (late 1940s), P. Hindemith (1953-63), B. Martinu work here (late 1950s). The greatest Swiss composer of the 20th century is Arthur Honegger.
Since the late 40s, jazz has been gaining popularity. In 1967, the annual Montreux Jazz Festival was founded, bringing together the best jazz performers.
In 1956, the Eurovision Song Contest was held for the first time in Switzerland.
Switzerland hosts hundreds of music festivals of various genres every year, including:
Jazz festivals in Montreux, Bern and Willisau,
July festivals in Bern, Avenches and Nyon.
Summer open-air pop concerts
Symphony and chamber concerts in Biel and Lugano
International music festivals of classical music in Lucerne, St. Moritz, Gstaad are major events in the world of classical music.
Today there are 7 conservatories in Switzerland
Opera houses operate in Basel, Bern, Zurich, Lucerne, St. Gallen and Biel.
And there are ballet companies in Zurich, Basel and Geneva. The dance troupe of Maurice Bejart is famous all over the world. Lausanne hosts one of the most prestigious ballet competitions in the world.
The Swiss have made a huge contribution to world science. Gustav Jung created analytical psychology, Albert Hofmann discovered and researched psychotropic substances, and Henri Dunant founded the International Committee of the Red Cross. During the Berne period of his life, Albert Einstein developed the main issues of the special theory of relativity.
But Switzerland has left a deep mark on our Russian culture.
N.V. Gogol wrote the second volume of Dead Souls in Vevey in 1836.
Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky in Geneva, and then in Clarence on the shores of Lake Geneva, composed the operas “Eugene Onegin” and “Joan of Arc”. And Igor Stravinsky wrote the famous “Rite of Spring” in the vicinity of Montreux. One of the streets of Clarence is called in memory of this: Rue du Sacre du Printemps (Street of the Sacred Spring). The concert hall in Montreux also bears the name of Stravinsky (Auditorium Strawinsky).
As a child, Marina Tsvetaeva lived in Lausanne, and Vladimir Nabokov lived in Montreux for many years. From 1974 to 1976, Alexander Solzhenitsyn lived in Zurich.
In Switzerland, Alexander Ivanovich Herzen, Mikhail Bakunin and Vladimir Ilyich Lenin thought about the fate of the Russian people. In Geneva, where the leader of the world proletariat lived for a long time, a museum and a store of Soviet symbols have been opened, and in Zurich, on the house where Lenin also lived, a memorial plaque has been installed.
Holidays
January 1 - New Year
January 2 is the Day of St. Berthold, the founder of the city of Bern.
April (usually) - Good Friday, Easter, Monday of Bright Week
May 1 - Labor Day
May-June - Ascension of the Lord. Pentecost and Spiritual Day
June (usually) - Feast of Corpus Christi
August 1st - Swiss national holiday
August 15 – Assumption of the Virgin Mary
November 1 - All Saints' Day
December 8 is the Day of the Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary.
December 25—Christmas.
December 26th is Boxing Day.
Festivals
Gourmet Festival in St. Moritz
Carnival in Lucerne
Berne Carnival
Carnival in Basel
Montreux Jazz Festival
Verbier Music Festival
Geneva Escalade
Swiss cuisine
Swiss cuisine is recognized and loved all over the world. And although it was not without the influence of its neighbors: Germany, France and Italy, the Swiss were able to create many original dishes:
Swiss chocolate
Fondue is a dish of cheese and wine, which is prepared in a special heat-resistant catnelone dish over an open fire.
Rösti - a dish of grated potatoes with vegetable or animal fats added
Tartiflette
Basel Brunels (Cookies)
Swiss sausage salad
Swiss gingerbread
Swiss cheese soup
Swiss roll
Polenta is a dish made from cornmeal.
Raclette - a dish of melted fatty cheese
Cookies "Lotus Petals"
Meringues are a dessert made from egg whites whipped with sugar and baked.
Switzerland is famous for its wines, the main wine-making region: the shores of Lake Geneva and Lake Neuchâtel, and the Rhone Valley.
White wines are widely known: - "Dezaley", "St.-Saphorin", "Fendant", and "Johannisberg", "Twanner".
The best red wines are the exquisitely delicate Rose der CEil-de-Perdrix, the strong Dole, Pinot Noir and Merlot.
Red wines of northern and eastern Switzerland: light "Blauburgunder", "Hallauer", "Stafener", "Maienf elder".
The ruby-red wines of the canton of Grisons are distinguished by their luxurious bouquet: “Sassella”, “Grumello”, “Inferno”.
Most restaurants are open from 11.00 to 19.30-20.00, sometimes until 21.30. But restaurants and cafes located outside tourist areas may stop working as early as 17.00 and close for the whole weekend. Establishments located in large cities, and especially within the historical center, are open longer. You must make sure to reserve a table.
At ski resorts, hotel restaurants are open from 7.00 to 21.00-22.00. As a rule, in the morning and afternoon there is a buffet, and after 14.00 there is a menu. Restaurants on the slopes open after 11.00 and close at the end of lift operating hours.
Story
The oldest known inhabitants of the modern territory of Switzerland are the Celtic, Italic and Illyrian tribes. In particular, in the 1st century. BC e. The Helvetian Celts settled in the west of the Swiss plateau, the Vindelici Celts settled in the east, and the Rhetes, related to the Etruscans, settled in the Alps of Eastern Switzerland. The Helvetii were engaged in agriculture and cattle breeding, produced iron and minted gold coin, and have already begun to build cities. It was at this time that Aventicum (Avenches), Genava (Geneva), Lauzonium (Lausanne), Salodurum (Solothurn), Vindonissa (Windisch), Turicum (Zurich), Vitudurum (Winterthur), etc. arose.
The first Celtic tribe to be defeated and conquered by the Romans were the Insubri in 222 BC. (south Ticino). A hundred years later, in 121 BC. The Romans conquered the Allobroges (region of Geneva). But the Helvetii themselves in 107 BC. e. raided southern Gaul and defeated the Romans. Half a century later, in 58 BC. e. under pressure from the Germanic tribe of Suevi, the Helvetii decided to completely move to the shores of the Atlantic Ocean. Fearing the threat to Northern Italy from the Helvetii, Caesar prevented them from doing this, defeated them and forced them to return to Helvetia. And in 15 BC, Decimus Claudius Nero finally annexed eastern and central Switzerland to Rome. During the Roman era, prosperity grew, cities were built (the capital of Helvetia Aventicum - Avenches, Equestris - Nyon, Augusta-Raurica - Augst and Vindosia - Windisch) and roads were built, trade developed, the Latin language and Roman culture spread. Later, Christianity penetrated Helvetia, monasteries were built, and episcopal sees were founded.
But Peaceful time didn't last long. Already in 264, the Alemanni invaded Helvetia and destroyed Aventicum, which was never reborn. Despite the attempts of the Romans to build new fortresses and camps, in 406-407. The Alemanni captured eastern Switzerland. And in 470, western Switzerland was subjugated by the Burgundians. The Alemanni almost completely eliminated Roman influence and the Latin language. Their descendants - modern German-Swiss, along with the German literary norm, still speak the Alemannic language. In recent years, this language has become especially widespread on social networks and online forums. The Burgundians left a much smaller footprint in western Switzerland. On the basis of Latin, the Arpitan (Fraco-Provençal) language developed here - the native language of the second largest people in Switzerland - the French-Swiss, which also exists along with official French. The southeast (the modern canton of Graubünden) came under the rule of the Ostrogoths, and the Romansh language arose from a mixture of Latin and Rhaetan. And the canton of Ticino, which was the possession of the Lombards, adopted Lombard, which is close to official Italian.
The new conquerors were the Franks. In 496 they conquered the Alemanni, and in 534 the Burgundians were conquered. Ticino was conquered in 774. At this time, Christianity was finally established, and new monasteries were built. But in 843 the Frankish Empire collapsed. Burgundy and Ticino are given to the Middle Kingdom, the German king gets Alemannia, where the city of Zurich and the monastery of St. Gallen, the center of education in Switzerland, rise. Alemannia became a duchy in 911, and Upper Burgundy became a separate kingdom in 888.
A new danger arises in the 10th century. In 917 the Hungarians sacked Basel, and in 926 St. Gallen; in 936-940 the Arabs devastated Grisons, Valais and Vaud.
In 1032, the German emperor also received Burgundy; Ticino was part of Italy, which in turn was also subordinate to the German emperor.
Gradually Alemannia and Burgundy broke up into many separate counties and duchies, some of which were directly subordinate to the emperor, and some of which catholic church. The counts (later dukes) of Zähringen, Habsburgs, Cyburgs, and Savoy especially rose to prominence. They founded new cities: Freiburg, Bern, Thun, Murten, etc. But despite the subordinate position among free townspeople and rural settlers, republican-democratic self-government emerged at this time. The country is achieving relative prosperity.
The preconditions for the emergence of the Swiss state itself were the struggle that flared up in the 13th century between the Habsburgs and the emperors. Namely, in the years 1245-1252, the Habsburgs tried to conquer the canton of Schwyz, which was granted a special charter of liberty by Emperor Frederick II in 1240. Schwyz was supported by Uri and Unterwalden, who concluded an alliance treaty, which was renewed “for eternity” on August 1, 1291.
This treaty is usually considered to be the beginning of Switzerland as a state, although even the name of Switzerland was still unknown at that time: it appeared later.
In 1307, King Adolf of Nassau confirmed the independence of Schwyz and Uri from the empire, and in 1309, Henry VII of Luxembourg gave a charter of liberty to Unterwalden. However, the Habsburgs did not accept the loss of their lands. In 1315, the large army they assembled entered the territory of the canton of Zug and on the Morgarten Heights, in a narrow valley between Lake Egeri and the mountains, was defeated by a tiny detachment of local peasants and hunters. After this battle of Morgarten, due to the incorrect naming of all allies by the name of one community - Schwyz, the modern name of the country was born.
In 1332, Lucerne joined the alliance; Austria (where the Habsburgs reigned) responded with an unsuccessful war. In 1351, Zurich annexed to protect itself from Austria. After the ensuing war, the Austrian possessions of Glarus and Zug were annexed in 1352. And a year later, in 1353, having defeated the Habsburg allies, Bern joined. The Swiss were forced to defend their independence in wars against Austria in 1364 and 1386. This is how the so-called “Union of 8 Old Lands” was formed.
Meanwhile, relations between the allies remained completely voluntary. There was no single government or a single army. At times, wars even broke out, for example the Old War of Zurich in 1436-1450 between Zurich and the Forest cantons. But nevertheless, in 1415 the allies recaptured Aargau from the Austrians, in 1452 - from the St. Gallen monastery - Appenzell and St. Gallen itself, in 1460 - Thurgau and in 1440 - the Leventine Valley. In 1475, Valais, freed from the power of the Savoy counts, was annexed.
In the 14th and 15th centuries, Switzerland became the freest and most democratic country in the world, prosperity grew, trade and industry developed, and the University of Basel was founded in 1460. After the victorious Burgundian War, Swiss mercenary troops became elite military units throughout Europe.
Freiburg and Solothurn join the union. A new agreement is concluded, common to all 10 lands. After the war with the Swabian League (1499), the connection with the Holy Roman Empire was finally abolished. In the Italian Wars, the Swiss took part in Charles VIII's conquest of Naples and Louis XII's conquest of Milan, later becoming allies of Pope Julius II. Louis XII, in turn, transferred Bellinzona, Lugano, Locarno, Chiavenna, Valtelin and the southern part of Ticino to the union.
Meanwhile, in 1501, Basel, Schaffhausen and Appenzell joined the Union. The Union of 13 lands was formed. Neuchâtel, the Bishopric of Basel, the Abbey of St. Gallen, the city of St. Gallen, Biel, Grisons, Valais, Geneva, Ticino, Bellinzona, and Vaud were subordinated to the Union on various rights.
At this time, the ideas of the Reformation penetrated into Switzerland. In 1519, Ulrich Zwingli began his activities in Zurich, Joachim Watt in St. Gallen, and Michael Eggensdorf in Schaffhausen. In 1525 the Anabaptist movement emerged. In 1528, the Reformation won in Bern, in Basel, and then Calvin preached in Geneva. This led to the First War of Religion (1529) between the treaty Protestant Zurich, Bern, St. Gallen, Biel, Mühlhausen, Basel, Schaffhausen and the union of 5 Catholic cantons with Valais and Austria. Switzerland split into two parts.
Meanwhile, in 1526, Geneva entered into an alliance with Bern and Freiburg, the ensuing war with Savoy brought the acquisition of Vaux, the annexation of Lausanne (1536). Protestant academies were founded in Geneva and Lausanne, and Jesuit colleges were founded in Lucerne and Freiburg. The religious struggle was accompanied by expulsions and capital punishments. In 1586, the Catholic cantons of Schwyz, Uri, Unterwalden, Lucerne, Zug, Freiburg, and Solothurn concluded the “Golden” Union. In 1597, Appenzell split into two semi-cantons: the Catholic Innerrhoden and the Protestant Ausserrhoden.
All this had a negative impact on the country. Plague and famine became frequent occurrences. But the situation was changed by neutrality in Thirty Years' War, a position that later became one of the main political ideas of the country. Switzerland became a haven for those fleeing religious persecution and for political exiles. Trade and industry are developing rapidly. But the echoes of the turbulent events of the previous century do not subside. In 1656, the First Wilmergen War broke out between Catholic Schwyz and Lucerne and Protestant Zurich and Bern, and in 1712, the Second Wilmergen War broke out between Catholic and Protestant cantons. But the 18th century highlights the struggle between oligarchy and democracy. This century is the flowering of industry and trade, scientific thought.
The events of the Napoleonic Wars did not pass by either. In 1798, the French, under the pretext of killing two French hussars, crossed the border into Vaud, which they declared the Leman Republic. Very soon Basel was annexed to the republic, and it was transformed into the Helvetic Republic. Valais, Leman, Aargau, Bellinzona, Lugano, Raetia, Sargans, Thurgau and St. Gallen were added to the 13 old cantons. Uri, Schwyz, Unterwalden and Zug were united into the canton of Waldstetten with its capital at Schwyz. Sargans and Glarus are in the canton of Lint, and Appenzell and St. Gallen are in the canton of Säntis. Geneva was annexed to France. And the republic was forced to sign an alliance with France and turned into the main theater of military operations.
In 1803, Napoleon handed the Swiss a new constitution. Switzerland became a union state of 19 cantons. Grisons, Aargau, Thurgau, St. Gallen, Vaud and Ticino were added to the 13 old cantons. After the Battle of Leipzig (1813), Switzerland decided to maintain strict neutrality, but the Austrians, wanting to subordinate the country to their influence, entered its territory.
The Austrians were supported by Bern, Fribourg, Solothurn and Lucerne, who sought to restore the previous order and subjugate the newly formed cantons. But thanks to the support of Emperor Alexander I, a new union treaty was adopted. And the Declaration of 1815 confirmed the eternal neutrality of Switzerland and the inviolability of its borders. Valais, Geneva and Neuchâtel were returned, forming 3 new cantons.
Reference Information
Institutions are usually open on weekdays 8.00-12.00 and 14.00-17.00. Saturday and Sunday are days off.
Banks are usually open from 8.30 to 16.30, except weekends. Banks work longer than usual one day a week; this must be clarified with each individual bank.
Post offices in large cities are open on weekdays 8.30–12.00 and 13.30–17.00, on Saturdays from 7.30–11.00, and closed on Sundays.
Branches in shopping centers usually operate the same hours as the store itself, including extended hours once a week.
Voltage
The mains voltage is 220V/50Hz. Receptacles are primarily designed to accept three-prong plugs (the third is an offset ground pin), but standard two-prong plugs will also work. An adapter for “Euro plugs” with a grounding contact is easy to find in any hotel or store.
The shops
Shops are open on weekdays 8.30 - 12.00, and then 14.00 - 18.30. In large cities, shops usually do not interrupt their work during the lunch break, and on one weekday (usually Thursday or Friday) they are open until 21.00. In Zurich, shops close at 20.00 on weekdays. On Saturday, most shops are open until 16.00-18.00. On Sunday, only shops at airports, major train stations and along major highways are open.
The most profitable purchase in Switzerland can be a Swiss wristwatch. Here you will find a huge selection at much more reasonable prices.
The oldest watch store in Switzerland is Beyer Chronometrie in Zurich, it belongs to the seventh generation of watchmakers.
In April, Basel hosts the international jewelry exhibition BASELWORLD, in which more than 2,200 manufacturers of watches, jewelry, and precious stones, for many of whom BASELWORLD is an exclusive place to display their products.
You will also be amazed by the abundance of varieties, types and forms of chocolate.
In addition, in Switzerland it is worth purchasing clothes, bed linen, tablecloths, napkins, embroidered towels, precision instruments, pocket knives, ceramics, antiques and art publications.
Value added tax in Switzerland is 7.6%. But if you purchased goods worth 300 Swiss francs in one store or in one day, and the goods will be exported from the country within 30 days from the date of purchase, you can apply for a VAT refund. To do this, stores will give you Global Blue Tax Free Checks, which must be stamped by customs at the airport when leaving the country. And you have the right to receive the VAT included in the price of the goods in cash at the airport at the Global Blue office, on a specified credit card or bank account, by bank check or in cash upon returning home.
Switzerland is in many ways a unique state in Central Europe. It is surrounded by countries such as Germany, Austria, Liechtenstein, France and Italy. It has no access to the sea. The main wealth of the country is nature: 2/3 of the territory is occupied by mountains, alpine meadows, many lakes, and natural parks.
The capital of the state is Bern (the center of the German-speaking canton of the same name). To the number major cities include: Zurich, Geneva, Basel, Lausanne.
Political structure. Official name of the country: Swiss Confederation. The President is the head of state and government.
Administrative-territorial structure. Switzerland is a federal republic consisting of twenty-six cantons. Each canton has its own constitution, parliament, and legislation, but the rights of the regions are limited by the Swiss constitution.
Language: The state was formed from different language groups, so there is no common language. There are four official languages spoken in the country: German, French, Italian and Romansh. Today, the German-Swiss make up the majority - 65%, French-speaking - 18%, Italian-Romance - 10%. One percent are Romansh.
Religion. During the Reformation, the country experienced a church schism, as a result of which the population was divided roughly in half between Catholics and Protestants. About 6% are representatives of other religions.
Currency: Swiss franc (CHF), equal to 100 centimes.
Climate. Varies by region and depending on the altitude of the area. In most of the country the climate is temperate, continental. There are no strong changes in heat, cold, or humidity here. South of the Alps it is almost Mediterranean. The mountains have stable snow cover in winter.
- The name Switzerland comes from the community of Schwyz, one of the three valleys that united in 1291 to jointly resist their enemies.
- In ancient times, the Celtic tribe of the Helvetii lived in the country, hence another name - Helvetia (used on stamps).
- In 1815, the Congress of Vienna declared the “neutrality” of Switzerland. Since then, the country has remained out of military conflicts.
- Despite the fact that most of the country is occupied by mountains, Switzerland is a peasant country famous for milk and cheese. This state also produces the best watches in the world and is a global banking center.
- Switzerland is not a member of the European Union, however, the headquarters of many international organizations are located here (UN, WTO, IOC, Red Cross).
Switzerland map
Switzerland brief information about the country.
The name of this country, which has picturesque lands in the very center of Europe, has long become a household name: “you just have Switzerland here” - that’s really a compliment!
Fabulous snowy Alps, blue mirror lakes, ancient cities, delicious cheese, famous chocolate, and the best, according to experts, wine - and we have not yet said a word about the watch industry, reliable banks, devotion to traditions and much more, from which the image of Switzerland is emerging.
Eight regions, twenty-six cantons, four official state languages, own currency, ability to remain neutral...
Such a small country, but there is enough pride and independence for several large ones! Among other things, Switzerland is also one of the richest countries in the world - literally and figuratively. The standard of living and income here are high, but Switzerland can be no less proud of “ human resource“- Jean-Jacques Rousseau, Le Corbusier, Giacometti and Paul Klee were born here, Albert Einstein, Hermann Hesse, Vladimir Nabokov and Friedrich Dürrenmatt worked here. It is in Switzerland that the European headquarters of the UN and the leadership of the Red Cross are located, the Swiss Guard protects the Vatican and the Pope, in general, this country has something to brag about in addition to “external data”, which, however, is also very impressive...
Go skiing in Zermatt or St. Moritz, sail on a pleasure boat on Lake Geneva from Lausanne to Chillon Castle, get lost in the old streets of Zurich and look at live bears in Bern, admire the bridges of Lucerne and the waterfalls of Mitteland, take a ride along the historical railway, admiring the views of meadows, high mountain peaks and lakes - this is the minimum program for a tourist discovering Switzerland for the first time.
You will be surprised at how many surprises this country holds, and your own discoveries will definitely be added to the list of expected impressions. Walk through the Ars Gorge, buy a ticket to Locarno, visit the Nietzsche Museum in Sils Maria... Behind the outwardly restrained, refined appearance hides a powerful, passionate nature - such is Switzerland.
Cultural characteristics
Switzerland is distinguished by its diversity of nationalities and officially used languages - there are four of them: German, French, Italian and Romansh. Natives of other countries have enriched the culture of Switzerland and formed unique customs and traditions.
Local residents are usually thorough and do everything with tact and order; they are pedantic and reserved. On the other hand, the Swiss know how to relax and behave quite freely, but they know moderation in everything.
Traditional distinguishing feature Swiss residents are hard-working, they make every effort to complete the job as accurately as possible.
The Swiss take great care of the appearance of their homes and gardens. Almost all window sills are decorated with flowers, and cornices and plant boxes are attached to the walls of houses.
Residents are also sensitive to cleanliness, ecology, and waste recycling. The latter is even spelled out in legislation, so it is not just a personal desire for cleanliness, but the responsibility of everyone.
In Switzerland it is customary to respect privacy everyone. Strangers don’t talk to each other unless absolutely necessary, but you shouldn’t mistake this for stiffness—it’s respect for your neighbors. You cannot blame the Swiss for impoliteness; they never forget to say hello or thank you.
National holidays
- January 1 - New Year;
- January 2 - Berthold's Day;
- March 28 - April 22 - Good Friday;
- April 5 - April 25 (the first Sunday and Monday after the vernal equinox) - Easter and Easter Monday;
- May 8 - June 13 - Ascension;
- 18 -19 - Trinity and Spiritual Day;
- June 11 - Feast of Corpus Christi;
- August 1-2 - Day of the Swiss Confederation;
- November 1 - All Saints' Day;
- December 25—Christmas.
Kitchen
Like culture, Swiss cuisine is a mixture of several traditions: German, French and Italian. In addition, it is directly related to agricultural traditions. So all the dishes are borrowed, but with a characteristic twist.
Cheeses are one of the important ingredients in many dishes.
The most famous Swiss cheeses are the beloved Emmental and Gruyère.
One of the most popular local dishes- cheese fondue, invented by Alpine shepherds. The shepherds dipped pieces of bread into the remains of cheese mixed with garlic and white wine. Nowadays this dish is prepared from all kinds of cheeses, but also with the addition of garlic and wine and served in a cauldron. The Swiss consider fondue their national dish.
The taste preferences of the Swiss often depend on their national roots. The part of the population that speaks Italian prefers a variety of pastas, risotto or ravioli. And German-speaking residents are fans of various sausages, difficult-to-prepare rösti - a dish made from grated potatoes, and sausages.
Everyone knows that Switzerland produces excellent chocolate, and for its residents it is more than just a delicacy.
The history of this dessert goes back at least three thousand years, and now chocolate has great importance in the country's economy. The residents themselves consume more than 12 kg of chocolate per year and break world records for its consumption.
In Switzerland they prepare a lot of original and delicious dishes, which you will definitely want to try, and you will definitely want to bring the recipes with you from your trip.
Shopping
Shopping in Switzerland is varied and will definitely bring you pleasure. Traditionally, this country is associated with chocolate, cheese and watches.
Indeed, all these products are distinguished by the highest quality, and, as far as gastronomy is concerned, also by their excellent, refined taste. Therefore, at a minimum, be sure to bring home a few bars of everyone’s favorite dessert and you definitely won’t regret it.
It is curious that the cow is a highly revered animal in this country, and therefore here you can find many souvenirs with its image: figurines made of wood and porcelain, plush toys, dishes and much more.
An excellent gift for a man would be a real army knife with a lot of additional functions, and for a girl you can buy a small music box in the shape of a chalet house.
When looking for a more expensive souvenir, pay attention to the jewelry company Gubelin, where craftsmen create original and incredibly elegant jewelry.
VisaThe validity period of a passport for obtaining a visa and for entering the country - is there a difference? To obtain a visa to Switzerland, the passport must be valid for at least three months after the visa expires. To enter the country, the passport must be valid for three months after the end of the trip. . Is it possible to enter the country if a valid visa is in an already invalid passport? Yes, the rules for entry into the EU and Schengen territory allow tourists to enter with an old passport with a visa and a new one without a visa. The main thing is that the owner’s information in both passports matches. The border crossing stamp is placed in the new passport. . Documents worth looking at Special attention when applying for a visa, all persons requesting a visa must be included in the hotel reservation. Please note the insurance policy - handwritten insurance is not accepted. The policy itself must be valid for 15 days longer than the planned stay in Schengen. . What documents can increase the chance of receiving? During winter trips to ski resorts V insurance policy There must be a clause about extreme sports. There are no other special requirements for documents. There are also no special documents that can influence the decision on your visa. . Where can I find a complete list of visa documents? A list of documents, as well as information on how and where to submit an application, and how to then obtain a passport with a ready-made visa, is available on the website of the Swiss visa center in Russia and on the website of the Swiss Embassy. . How to avoid pitfalls in a visa application and get a long visa?... Read more
How to get thereGetting to Switzerland is not difficult - Aeroflot flights depart daily from Moscow to Geneva and Zurich, as well as the national Swiss carrier Swiss. In addition, with transfers you can fly on Lufthansa (via Frankfurt to Geneva and Zurich), AirBaltic (via Riga to Zurich), Pegasus and Turkish Airlines (via Istanbul to Geneva, Zurich and Basel), Belavia (to Geneva). Almost all airports fly to Swiss airports... Read more
Border nuancesEvery tourist entering Switzerland must have a passport with a valid visa and a health insurance policy. Migration service employees may also require a return ticket or documents confirming the purpose of the visit (for example, a hotel reservation). When entering by car, in addition to your license and registration certificate, you will need... Read more
CustomsNon-EU citizens can bring into Switzerland duty-free up to 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars, 250 grams of tobacco, up to 1 liter of spirits or up to 2 liters of strong wines and up to 4 liters of table wine. Fuel (gasoline, diesel fuel) - full car tank + 10 liters in a canister. Other goods for personal use - up to... Read more
Car rentalAll major global car rental brands are represented in Switzerland, and there are also many local rental companies with a good fleet of cars. It is better to book a car in advance online through the websites of rental aggregators - in this case, the rental cost will be one third cheaper than what the websites of rent-a-car companies offer. Standard requirements are that the driver must be over 21 years old and have at least 3 years of driving experience. You definitely need a bank card on which a certain amount (usually from 600 EUR) will be blocked as a deposit until the car is returned. A nuance of registering a car in Swiss companies is that the cost of a full tank of fuel is often already included in the rental price. This means that you have the right to return the car with an empty tank. Driving in Switzerland is on the right. The roads are in excellent condition, even those marked on the map as country roads. However, it is worth remembering that there are many mountain roads here - special care must be taken when traveling in winter; in high mountainous areas it is necessary to use chains. In Switzerland there are many ... Read more
Transport within the countrySwiss transport is like a Swiss watch - although it has a complex mechanism, it works almost without failure. All types of transport (buses, trams, ferries, city and intercity trains, funiculars), with the exception of air, are combined into a single Swiss Travel System. There are more than 10 types of different travel tickets, allowing ... Read more
SafetySwitzerland is one of the safest countries in the world. Residential areas are not densely populated; in any canton of the country, parents calmly send their children to school without additional accompaniment, adults go on an evening or night promenade without fear.... Read more
ConnectionMobile operators Swisscom Ltd is the largest cellular operator of the GSM 900/1800 standard, serving about 5.5 million subscribers...