Switzerland - overview
Switzerland is unquestionably one of the
most beautiful countries in the world. The
stunning mountain ranges, vast lakes, picturesque
medieval architecture and the sheer variety
of natural beauty is virtually unmatched.
The eclectic fusion of German, French and
Italian cultures has created a quintessential
European culture in its own right making
Switzerland one of the most instantly recognisable
destinations in Europe. Despite the differences
in language and hence a broad variance in
many aspects of lifestyle, the country has
striven for a united nation for over 700
years making it one of the friendliest and
safest places to live or visit.
The capital of Switzerland, Bern, is built
around an extravagant bend in the River Aare.
The second most populous and second largest
canton or region of the country, Bern comprises
three sections; the Bernese Alps, or highlands,
with many resorts and peaks, notably the
Finsteraarhorn and Jungfrau, and with meadows
and pastures in the valleys; the midlands,
in the fertile northern foothills of the
Alps, and including the Emmental; and the
lake region around Biel. The city is a university,
administrative, transportation, and industrial
centre. Attractions to see include, Munster,
the stunning 15th century Gothic cathedral,
walk along Marktgrasse and Kramgrasse and
marvel at the beautiful colourful arcades
and fountains on the way to the Zeitglockenturm.
The largest Swiss city, Zurich is the country's
economic and commercial centre as well as
the intellectual centre of German-speaking
Switzerland. A walk around Lake Zurich and
the many parks of the city is a must for
local and tourists alike. The city of Geneva,
is situated on the Lake of Geneva and divided
by the Rhone River, which emerges from the
lake. One of the most beautiful location
in the world, this picturesque city is joined
by numerous bridges. Geneva is a cultural,
financial, and administrative centre. The
European home of the United Nations is located
at the Palais des Nations and the Museum
of the League of Nations and the Rockerfeller
Library are well with a visit. |
