Territory, population and total area of ​​Switzerland. Switzerland: description and history

Switzerland is located among the Alpine peaks and is rightfully considered the richest state in the world. For many, the name of the country is identical to the concept of reliability, this is confirmed by the famous precision watches, sharp knives and jars. Switzerland also attracts millions of tourists who want to ride on the slopes of the mountains in the Alps, admire the lakes and an abundance of interesting places with a rich history. Swiss castles, located on the slopes of mountains, surrounded by pine trees, look like something out of a fairy tale.

General information

Switzerland is a small state located in the very center of Europe. According to one legend, God, while distributing territory between countries, forgot about tiny Switzerland. Wanting to correct the injustice, he gave the country nature of amazing beauty - on a modest territory there are mountains, smooth, clean lakes, rushing waterfalls, glaciers and valleys covered with flowers. Monarchs, students, and elderly people come to admire the Swiss beauty.

Surprisingly, Switzerland does not have a clear capital like Paris in France. Bern is usually called the main city, but this city is not the most popular. There are much more visited settlements. For example, the center of international diplomatic organizations and events is located in Geneva.

Since the beginning of the 19th century, the state has adhered to a policy of neutrality, does not interfere in external conflicts, while the population freely expresses its worldview and political preferences. According to the Swiss Constitution, every citizen is guaranteed freedoms, the only exception being the illegal issue of money.

Interesting fact! The state accounts for one thousandth of the total population in the world - that's 7.2 million people.

Historical excursion

Aigle Castle

The history of the country is rightfully considered one of the longest. The first settlements were formed on the territory of the modern state in the 12th millennium BC, when the climate on the planet began to change dramatically, the earth got rid of snow, and the first representatives of people appeared.

At different historical periods, Switzerland was inhabited by the Celts and Helvetii. In the 1st century BC. The country was captured by the Romans; it was during this period that Switzerland actively developed and became world famous. In the 5th century the country was under the control of the Alemanni, Burgundians and Ostrogoths. Then came the era of the Franks, and in the 11th century the territory of Switzerland became part of the Roman Empire.

Interesting fact! Switzerland cannot be called a single nation; the country was a union of cantons that have always strived for independent management of their own territory.

More than seven centuries ago, the inhabitants of the three regions entered into an alliance and vowed to help each other and protect each other from the attack of the Habsbrugs. The struggle for independence was long and dramatic, but as a result the people defended their independence. The Swiss celebrate their national holiday with pomp and joy every year on August 1st.

By the beginning of the 16th century, the state consisted of 13 cantons, each of which was independent and sovereign. There was no common government, army, or capital. In the 17th century, due to a schism in the church, a serious crisis arose, which almost led to the collapse of the country. Only an external threat from France united people, but for 15 years the state was under the control of the French, who made the Helvetic Republic out of Switzerland.

In 1815, the situation changed dramatically - a common Constitution was introduced, valid in the territory of 22 cantons. In the same year, the permanent neutrality of the state was recognized internationally.

Interesting fact! The borders of Switzerland, defined in 1815, remain unchanged to this day. In 1948, Switzerland acquired the status of a federal state.

Language

Once in Switzerland, you will undoubtedly notice that all official announcements and signs are presented in two languages, however, four languages ​​are considered official on the territory of the state:

• German – spoken by slightly less than 64% of the population;
• French – 20.5% of the population;
• Italian – 6.5% of the population;
• Romansh – 0.5% of the population.

Each language has its own dialect depending on the region. In addition, in Switzerland there is a huge number of dialects that have been formed over the centuries as a result of the mixing of different ethnic groups.

Economy

Swiss National Bank

Switzerland is on the list of the most successful and richest countries in the world. The country can be described as industrial, with a productive agricultural complex. It is noteworthy that there are no mineral resources in Switzerland.

Interesting fact! According to studies by Western experts, Switzerland is in the top ten in terms of competitiveness and sustainability.

The country's economy closely interacts with the economies of other countries, primarily the European Union. More than half of all cargo flowing from the north of Western Europe in a southerly direction passes through Swiss territory.

Good to know! From 1998 to 2000, the country experienced a slight economic decline. However, it took Switzerland only a few years to overcome the difficulties and successfully develop further.

There are many banks, including foreign ones, operating in Switzerland. This is due to the stable economic situation, as well as a reliable legal system. Thus, it is quite difficult to go broke here.

The country regularly receives guests from all over the world who come to conferences on various topics - banking, politics, finance, culture, design.

Policy

Swiss Parliament

Switzerland is a republic with a federal structure, the main document is the Constitution, in force since 1999. Governance of the state is entrusted to the president, who is elected annually. The government or Federal Council is formed of 7 people - heads of ministries. They are chosen by parliament. Each member of the Federal Council is vested with the powers of the President. Legislative power is concentrated in parliament, which is formed from two chambers.

Switzerland unites 26 cantons (regions), each with its own constitution, but it is subordinate to the general constitution. Laws adopted by Parliament are submitted for general discussion - a referendum is held.

Good to know! Until the 18th century, there were no central government bodies in the country; special all-Union assemblies, called tagsatzung, were held to resolve national issues.

Cities and resorts

In the small territory that Switzerland occupies, a huge number of contrasts are concentrated. Each city has its own landscape, architecture, cultural characteristics and traditions. Many people call Switzerland “Pocket Europe”.

Lausanne and Vevey

Lausanne is a city where young people come; during the day you can visit interesting architectural sites, and in the evening you can visit one of the nightclubs. Vevea is a resort for those who love the beauty of nature - the peaceful proximity of snowy peaks and palm trees is unlikely to leave anyone indifferent. Yverdon-les-Bains is popular for its healing hot springs and beautiful beach.

Undoubtedly, Switzerland is known in the world for its luxury resorts, because it combines picturesque nature and material wealth, which are enough to organize expensive health resorts. The best of them are located on the shores of the lake in Geneva, which is often called the Swiss Riviera.

Geneva is characterized as a multinational and diverse city, where ancient buildings, ancient squares, as well as ultra-modern buildings have been preserved, the most popular being the UN headquarters. Read .

There are excellent spas in Bad Ragaz. This is where it’s nice to exchange a comfortable bathrobe for an elegant cocktail dress. From the resort you can quickly get to Zurich, walk the streets of the ancient town, go to the numerous boutiques located on Bahnhofstrasse, and end the tour with a highlight - relaxing in a nightclub. What to see in Zurich in one day, look at.

Interesting to know! On the shores of the lake in Zurich, which is located within the city, there are about 30 places for recreation and swimming.

In the Italian part of Switzerland, the most popular resorts are Lugano, Locarno and Ascona, located next to Lake Lugansk.

Zug is a small but very beautiful town and the richest in Switzerland. It is located 23 km from Zurich. Peace and tranquility reign here, comfortable conditions have been created for a respectable holiday. In summer you can swim here in the clear water of Lake Zug, and in winter you can ride on the mountain slopes. Picturesque views accompany vacationers at any time of the year. It would be an unforgivable mistake to come to Zug and not try the famous cherry pie in the best Swiss patisseries. You can find more details about the city of Zug.

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Attractions

Switzerland is rich in amazing sights - natural, architectural, historical. A journey awaits you to mountain lakes and peaks, along medieval streets. Many of the country's attractions are included in the UNESCO World Heritage List.

Interesting fact! Switzerland has long used its natural beauty to attract tourists. An extensive railway and road network has been built here so that vacationers have the opportunity to easily and comfortably reach anywhere in the country.

Rhine Falls

Located in the northern part of Switzerland. Its width is 150 meters and its height is 23 meters. In the 20th century, industrialists wanted to build a power plant on the reservoir, but local residents insisted that the waterfall retained its original appearance. Today it is one of the most visited attractions.

Lake Geneva

The largest Swiss body of water, which is also a lake, is located in the southwestern part of the country. The surface of a lake is often compared to a mirror surface. There are many resorts on the shore - Montreux, Lausanne.

Interesting fact! Other lakes in Switzerland - Biel, Constance, Zurich, Neuchaten - are concentrated mainly in the west and north.

Mount Matterhorn

Switzerland is a country where ecotourism and active recreation are developed. In picturesque, protected areas there are comfortable walking paths and cycling routes, and in the mountains there are modern ski resorts with developed infrastructure. There are observation platforms on the tops of the mountains, and public transport runs to them.

Chillon Castle

A special place in the list of attractions is given to historical architectural monuments. There are many castles in Switzerland, many of which welcome tourists all year round. Looking at it, you seem to be transported to the era of knights and kings, shrouded in legends. The palace is located on the shores of Lake Geneva, it was built in the 11th century from stone and is rightfully considered an architectural masterpiece. The walls and interior decoration of the castle inspired poets, artists, and musicians, however, its history hides many dramatic moments, which tourists will be told about during the excursion.

Interesting fact! The largest number of palaces are located in Zurich, Bern and Geneva.

Recreation and entertainment

Switzerland is equally interesting for those who like to relax actively and for those who prefer to bask on the beach or in a spa center. The main feature is that you can relax here all year round.

Resort Engelberg

35 km from Lucerne is located (Mountain of Angels). A functioning Benedictine abbey has been preserved on its territory. There are trails for beginners and experienced athletes, as well as snowboard trails.

St. Moritz

One of the oldest ski resorts is located in the Engadin Valley. The main feature of the resort is its climate - almost all days of the year are sunny (322 days). St. Moritz is located on the shore of a lake and is rightfully considered the most aristocratic - monarchs, show business stars, billionaires and politicians vacation here. Despite the high prices, about one and a half million people visit the resort every year.

Good to know! If you don’t like extreme sports, but beach holidays don’t appeal to you either, go with an excursion group on a cycling or walking trip to the Alps. More than 180 walking routes have been developed for tourists, and about 3.5 km of roads of varying difficulty levels have been laid for cyclists.

Other types of recreation

There are no traditional sandy beaches in Switzerland, however, next to lakes - Lucerne, Geneva and in the canton of Ticino - grass beaches are no worse. There are no municipal recreation areas; equipped areas with sun loungers and umbrellas are only available near hotels.

The coldest water is from Lake Lucerne, as the climate in this region is more severe. Lake Geneva is warmer and the water here is clean. The best months for swimming are July and August.

Good to know! There are baths and baths on the shores of Lake Geneva.

The warmest water is in the lakes of the canton of Ticino - in summer it warms up to +25 degrees, but tourists prefer to swim in the pools. The most popular resorts in Ticino are Locarno, Ascona and Lugano. .

SPA resorts

Many tourists visit Switzerland for the purpose of health improvement. Swiss thermal springs, famous all over the world, are medical and health complexes, modern and comfortable. Here you can improve your health and undergo beauty treatments.

Good to know! Thermal procedures are beneficial for the respiratory system, cardiovascular system, musculoskeletal system, and nervous system. Experts recommend combining external wellness with internal wellness and visiting spa treatments and thermal springs at the same time.

Switzerland offers impeccable quality medical and cosmetic procedures. Additionally, you can undergo a massage course, various peelings and rejuvenating procedures. The most visited thermal springs:

• Leukerbad (Burgerbad);
• Bad Ragaz;
• Ovronna;
• Baden;
• Bormio;
• Valse;
• Schinznakh;
• Scuol.

Culture and festivals

The culture and traditions of the country were formed under the influence of many states - Austria and Germany, France and Italy. The inhabitants of Switzerland managed to create their own original and unique culture, and traditions are protected and expressed in songs, dances, clothing, embroidery, and crafts. Each region has a unique folklore ensemble.

Interesting fact! In mountainous regions, the most popular type of singing is yodeling. You can listen to it at the festival in Interlaken, which is held every three years.

Noisy, cheerful winter celebrations begin in December:

• On the 6th, fascinating processions take place in the streets, and residents all over the country prepare gingerbread men;
• On the 8th there is a holiday in honor of the Virgin Mary;
• On the 11th, Geneva invites you to the Escalade festival, during which the city streets miraculously turn into an ancient fortress;
• Christmas is traditionally celebrated on the 25th.

January is the month of the New Year, the feast of St. Berthold, who founded the city of Bern. In the second half of the month, St. Moritz welcomes true gourmets to a themed celebration, where you can try real delicacies.

February is the month when the largest Swiss cities are transformed - instead of a sedate, measured life, carnival processions with songs and dances take place here.

At the Montreux Jazz Festival

June is the month of the Montreux resort; a jazz festival is held here, where you can meet and listen to famous world stars.

Admirers of classical music go to Verbier; in the middle of summer, a thematic festival is held here.

Kitchen

– a real find for gourmets. Traditional dishes combine notes of French, Italian and German cuisine. This combination sounds like a symphony.

Interesting fact! The favorite ingredient of Swiss chefs is cheese; in Switzerland there are more than 450 varieties, from which a wide variety of dishes are prepared.

Each Swiss canton offers unique dishes specific to that area and region. On the shores of Lake Geneva, you should definitely try the perch, which will be caught and cooked before your eyes. Zug is popular for its amazing cherry pie. St. Gallen serves delicious veal sausages. Zurich is famous for its simple but unforgettable potato dish - resti. The onion pie is worth trying. Desserts are no less tasty and varied - honey cakes, puff pastry pies and, of course, the world-famous chocolate.

Switzerland produces delicious alcohol - cherry brandy, plum schnapps, pear Williams.

Good to know! The best way to have a hearty and inexpensive meal is in a cafe that has a “menu of the day.” A full lunch will cost 15-25 Swiss francs. Lunch in a restaurant costs from 50 francs. As a rule, the tip amount is already included in the bill.

Geography and nature

According to the Swiss, the country is located in the middle of the world. This statement is quite true, because Switzerland is actually located in the center of Europe and occupies 41.3 sq. km.

The state neighbors Austria and Germany, Italy and Liechtenstein, as well as France. The sources of the largest rivers in Europe are located in Switzerland.

More than half of the state’s territory is mountains, where lakes with the purest water are hidden, surrounded by alpine meadows. A quarter of the area is covered with forests.

Good to know! There are more than 1,500 lakes in the country. The highest point is Peak Dufour (4635 m), the lowest is Lake Lago Maggiore (193 m).

Switzerland, located in the Alpine mountains, beckons and fascinates with its views. Vacationers are attracted by the feeling of peace and unity with nature that reigns here.

Climate, weather conditions

The climate varies depending on the location above sea level. The territory of the country is conventionally divided into three zones:

• Alpine;
• Swiss plateau;
• Jura Mountain region.

In addition, the climate is influenced by:

• Atlantic Ocean;
• continent, which is located on the eastern side.

A fairly warm and dry mountain wind is typical for a state in the Alps.

Hotel Berggasthaus Aescher

You'll be surprised at how diverse Switzerland's climates and landscapes are. Andermatt's calling card is mighty pine trees and snow. After just 50 km, tourists find themselves in a region where palm trees bask in the rays of the sun. On one mountainside, eternal cold and tropics, lichens and luxurious flowers coexist. Such landscape diversity makes Switzerland attractive and desirable in any season:

• in spring it is better to go to the eastern part of the country and visit the Swiss Plateau;
• In summer, be sure to visit the mountain lakes;
• in autumn, travel south;
• winter is a great time to visit ski resorts concentrated in the alpine part.

Currency

The Swiss franc is used in Switzerland, the international symbol is CHF. There are one hundred centimes in one franc. In addition to francs, you can use euros, but this currency is only valid in popular tourist resorts.

Banking hours are from 8-00 to 16-00 (except weekends), there is a break - from 12-00 to 14-00. Exchange offices operate in every bank branch. There are similar points near large stores, at airports and travel agencies. Their work schedule is every day from 8-00 to 22-00, some work around the clock.

It is important! Special ATMs are installed for currency exchange, but you will have to pay a commission of up to 15% for the service.

It is best to exchange money for euros or francs before traveling to Switzerland. In stores, almost all goods have two prices - in euros and Swiss francs. It is more convenient to pay for goods with a plastic card.

Good to know! If you pay in euros, you will be given change in francs.

Transport

There is a well-developed railway connection between settlements, so the most convenient and easiest way to travel is by train, they follow a strict schedule, the carriages are comfortable, modern, there is a restaurant and gaming areas. Tickets can be purchased at the box office or ordered on the official website www.sbb.ch.

If the opportunity arises, take a trip on a tourist train. Flights follow special routes in the most picturesque parts of the country. The most famous tourist routes:

• Glacier Express – goes from Zermatt to St. Moritz;
• Chocolate Express - goes from Montreux to.

You can travel quite comfortably by bus. Transportation is carried out by Postbus. Tickets can be purchased at the box office or on the carrier’s official website. All bus stations are located near railway stations. There are also tourist routes, the most picturesque - Palm - buses depart from St. Moritz to Lugano.

Public transport

Statistically, Switzerland has the best and most modern public transport system in the world. This one involves travel on any type of public transport using a universal travel ticket. At the same time, the ticket provides impressive discounts on travel on tourist transport. Every city has several types of transport - trolleybuses, buses and trams. The cost of a single ticket varies from 2 to 7 francs, depending on the locality and travel conditions.

Switzerland has a taxi system, but the rides are too expensive. One kilometer costs 2-3 francs; on weekends and at night the rate increases.

Good to know! Many tourists travel by bicycle. In Geneva and Zurich you can rent them for free; you just need to leave any document or a small amount as collateral.

Car rental

The asphalt surface in the country is of excellent quality, so traveling by car will be a pleasure and no hassle. The only thing that can cause inconvenience is one-way traffic. In addition, separate lanes are allocated for public transport. Please note that repair work on Swiss city roads is a common occurrence.

A tourist over 21 years of age who has an international driving license and more than three years of driving experience has the right to rent a car. You must also have an active credit card.

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Visas

Given that Switzerland is part of the Schengen Agreement, a visa is required to visit it. The most commonly issued document is category C - this is a short-term visa that is suitable for:

• tourist trips;
• visits to relatives;
• business visits;
• transit visit to the country.

In addition, you can get a visa to study or work in Switzerland.

Citizens of Ukraine who have biometric passports do not require a tourist visa to visit Switzerland. The maximum permitted period of stay in the country is 90 days in a six-month period.

Tax free system

The country has a system according to which a tourist can return 8% value added tax, provided that the purchase amount exceeds 300 francs.

To do this, you need to find a store where they use the Tax free system, take a Tax Free Shopping Check form, which contains a complete list of products, enter personal data and contact information. Before leaving the country, you must present the customs officer with a completed form, a receipt from the store, a passport and the purchase itself. The customs representative puts a stamp. Upon arrival at home, you should contact a bank or a special Global Blue point. Here the tourist receives the amount in cash or a money transfer.

Switzerland, official name Swiss Confederation is a small state in Central Europe, bordered in the north by Germany, in the south by Italy, in the west by France, and in the east by Austria and Liechtenstein. The area of ​​the territory is 41,284 km².

Switzerland's northern border is partly along Lake Constance and the Rhine, which begins in the center of the Swiss Alps and forms part of the eastern border. The western border runs along the Jura Mountains, the southern - along the Italian Alps and Lake Geneva.
The country's territory is divided into three natural regions: the Jura Mountains in the north, the Swiss Plateau in the center, and the Alps, which occupy 61% of the total territory of Switzerland, in the south. The country's highest point is Peak Dufort (4634 m) in the Pennine Alps, and the lowest point is Lake Maggiore (193 m).

The country is rich in rivers and lakes (most of them are of glacial origin). Flowing from the mountains, the Rhine, Rhone, Limmat, Aare are the largest rivers in the country.

The ten largest lakes in Switzerland:

Lake Geneva (582.4 km²)

Lake Constance (539 km²)

Lake Neuchatel (217.9 km²)

Lago Maggiore (212.3 km²)

Lake Firvaldstät (113.8 km²)

Lake Zurich (88.4 km²)

Lugano (48.8 km²)

Lake Thun (48.4 km²)

Lake Bil (40 km²)

Lake Zug (38 km²)

About 25% of Switzerland's territory is covered by forests; they extend not only in the mountains, but also in valleys and on some plateaus.

Climate

Switzerland has a continental climate, typical of Central Europe, but due to the complexity of the terrain, the climatic conditions of individual areas are varied.

In the Alps, winter is relatively cold (temperatures drop to -10°C -12°C, sometimes lower), but is almost always sunny. On peaks from 2500-3000 m there is snow throughout the year. About 65% of the annual precipitation here falls in the form of snow, so in winter snow avalanches occur due to the accumulation of snow on the slopes. In summer there is frequent rain and fog, and the weather can change very quickly from sunny to rainy.

On the Swiss Plateau, winter is mild. The average temperature in January is about -2°C; if snow falls, it usually lasts only a few days. In December and January, strong winds blow from the Atlantic, bringing frequent rain and fog, but the summer is warm (the average temperature in July is +18°C), and the autumn is long and sunny.

The mildest and warmest climate is found in the interior mountain valleys and basins, protected from the cold northern winds by the mountains. For example, in the canton of Ticino, on the coast of lakes Lugano and Lago Maggiore, there are many sunny days (in summer the temperature can reach +30°C), there are no large temperature changes and strong seasonal weather fluctuations. Here palm trees, magnolias and other plants of southern countries grow in the open ground - essentially like on the Mediterranean coast.

Last changes: 05/09/2010

Population

The total population according to 2008 estimates was 7,580,000, with 65% German, 18% French, 10% Italian and 7% other nationalities. More than 1 million foreigners live in Switzerland, which is 1/7 of the total population; in large cities, the share of foreigners among residents rises to 1/5 - 1/3.

The population is mainly concentrated on the plateaus. Large industrial centers - Zurich, Basel and Geneva - have the highest population density.

Swiss citizens are very peaceful, friendly, polite and law-abiding people. They are traditionally conflict-free, reasonable and rationalistic. It is also worth noting the amazing punctuality of the Swiss. The standard of living in Switzerland is very high.

Language

Switzerland has 4 national languages: German (its local dialect is “Schwitzerdütsch”), French, Italian and Romansh.

Likewise, the Constitution determines that the official languages, i.e. The languages ​​in which legislative acts are drawn up and the population communicates with federal authorities and courts are German, French and Italian. Romansh is not an official language due to the small number of speakers. However, it is widely used in official meetings with Romansh people, who in turn can address authorities in their native language.

To protect linguistic minorities, the so-called “principle of territoriality” applies, i.e. respect for traditional linguistic boundaries and the exclusive use of the indigenous language of a given area in institutions, courts and schools.

German (the most common) is used by residents of the northern and northeastern parts of Switzerland (Zurich, Bern, etc.).

French is spoken mainly in the cantons of Geneva, Vaud, Neuchâtel, Friborg and Valais.

Italian is spoken mainly in the canton of Ticino, while Romansh is spoken only in the mountainous canton of Grisons.

The local dialect of German, “Schwitzerdütsch,” is very similar to classical German, so if you speak German, you will be perfectly understood.

Religion

Currently, Catholics make up about 50% of the population, Protestants about 48%. Confessional differences in Switzerland do not always coincide with linguistic boundaries. Among the Protestants there are both French-speaking Calvinists and German-speaking followers of Zwingli. The centers of German-speaking Protestantism are Zurich, Bern and Appenzell. The majority of French-speaking Protestants live in the canton of Geneva and the neighboring cantons of Vaud and Neuchâtel. Catholics predominate in central Switzerland around the city of Lucerne, much of the French-speaking cantons of Friborg and Valais, and the Italian-speaking canton of Ticino.

In Switzerland there are also adherents of the Orthodox faith; one of the Orthodox parishes, founded in 1936 by Metropolitan Eulogius, is located in Zurich, and the Church of the Nativity of the Virgin Mary is located in Geneva under the Representation of the Russian Orthodox Church in the World Council of Churches.

There are also small Jewish communities in Switzerland in Zurich, Basel and Geneva.

Switzerland is home to about 400,000 Muslims, mostly Turks and Kosovars. On November 29, 2009, a national referendum in Switzerland adopted a constitutional amendment banning the construction of minarets in the country. In addition, kosher and halal slaughter of animals is prohibited in Switzerland due to their cruelty.

The Swiss can be proud that they are fluent in several foreign languages ​​and can communicate freely with people from different countries. However, knowledge of their own state languages, unfortunately, is deteriorating due to their preference for English. As a result, four-lingual Switzerland is gradually turning into a “two and a half language” country. In other words, many Swiss speak their native language and English, but often only understand one of the four official languages.

Currency

The official currency of Switzerland is the Swiss franc (CHF).

The Swiss franc is equal to 100 centimes (rappen in German Switzerland). In circulation there are banknotes in denominations of 10, 20, 50, 100, 500 and 1000 francs, as well as coins of 1, 2 and 5 francs, 50, 20, 10 and 5 centimes.

Almost all shops, hotels, restaurants and cafes accept all major credit cards. Finding an ATM in the “land of banks” is also not difficult.

You can change money at any bank branch. Swiss banks are usually open from 8.30 to 16.30, except weekends. Once a week, banks work longer than usual; you need to check which day in each specific location.

You can also change money at exchange offices of large department stores, airports, railway stations and stations. Currency exchange offices at airports and railway stations are open daily from 8:00 to 22:00, sometimes around the clock.
However, it is better to change money before leaving, since in Switzerland itself the exchange rate of the national currency is overvalued.

Most prices are indicated in both EUR and Swiss CHF. Some large stores even accept EUR as payment, but give change in Swiss CHF. Therefore, it is most convenient to pay with plastic cards.

Last changes: 05/09/2010

Communications

Dialing code: 41

Swiss Internet domain: .ch

Ambulance - 144, police - 117, firefighters - 118, roadside assistance - 140 (round the clock), traffic jams, condition of roads and passes - 163.

How to call

In order to call from Russia to Switzerland, you need to dial: 8 - dial tone - 10 - 41 - city code - subscriber number.

In order to call from Switzerland to Russia, you need to dial: 00 - 7 - city code - subscriber number.

Landline communications

While in Switzerland, you can call abroad from any telephone machine using coins or using a telephone card, which can be purchased at any post office.

To call from one Swiss city to another, you must dial the city's telephone year, starting with 0, and then the subscriber's number.

mobile connection

Swisscom's mobile network covers about 99% of the country's populated areas. When entering Switzerland, the mobile phone usually searches for a suitable network on its own. For example, SWISS GSM appears on the display.

Information on the coverage area of ​​the mobile network of Swisscom Mobile, the leading mobile operator in Switzerland, can be found at www.swisscom-mobile.ch

Last changes: 05/24/2010

Shopping

In small towns and villages, shops are open from 8.30 to 12.00 and again from 14.00 to 18.30 on weekdays, on Saturdays from 8.00 to 12.00 and from 14.00 to 16.00. In large cities, shops do not close for lunch, but are closed on Monday in the morning, and on one weekday (most often Thursdays) they are open until 20:00.

On Sundays, shops are closed except at the airport, some train stations and rest stops along major highways.

In terms of shopping, Switzerland is attracted primarily by the excellent quality of goods produced there. There are a lot of different shops here, from small shops with a cozy atmosphere to chic boutiques of famous and not so famous brands, as well as large department stores.

Traditional “Swiss purchases” include chocolate, cheeses, coffee, local wines, famous penknives and music boxes, bed linen and tablecloths, embroidered towels, precision instruments, various souvenirs with Swiss symbols, as well as antiques. A shopping trip would be incomplete without buying the famous Swiss watches, which are much cheaper here than in other countries.

It is worth noting that Switzerland has a large selection of high-quality clothing and accessories, depending on the brand, at very reasonable prices.

In most shops and supermarkets, salespeople speak English.

VAT and tax-free:

For purchases over CHF 400 in one store, you can receive a VAT refund. Value added tax (VAT) in Switzerland is 7.6%. To receive a refund in the store, you must receive a “Tax-free Shopping Check” (Global Refund Check), according to which, when leaving the country, you, as a foreign citizen, will be refunded the amount of VAT. Goods must leave the country within 30 days.

In order to receive your money, you must:

1. In the shop

• After making a purchase at a store that is part of the Global Refund system (as evidenced by the presence of a brand name at the entrance to the store), ask for a Global Refund check to be issued to you directly from the cashier, customer service department or central accounting department of the store.

Upon receipt of the check, make sure that your information is completely filled out (first name, last name, country of residence, home address and passport number) in the appropriate field on the check, and that the cashier's check is attached to the Global Refund check.

2. At customs

Immediately before you leave the internal market of the host country, you must present the purchased items and a Global Refund check to the border customs, on which customs officers will put a mark confirming the export of the goods. Therefore, you cannot use the goods before leaving the country (the goods must have labels). Without a customs stamp, a refund is not possible. At airports, customs clearance must be done before baggage is checked in.

3. You can receive money according to the return option you have chosen:

• to a card (or bank account), which, in this case, must be indicated in the Global Refund check, while the check is sent by you to the address indicated on the envelope attached to the Global Refund check;
• in cash at Global Refund payment points directly in the host country, after affixing the customs stamp;
• in cash in the country of arrival at the bank.

Last changes: 04/26/2013

Where to stay

Most hotels in the country are members of the Swiss Hotel Association. They have good and spacious rooms with all the services expected of an establishment of this category. However, hotels that are not members of the Association are usually also cozy and tidy. In general, Swiss hotels are better than “central European” hotels. The price of breakfast (buffet) is usually included in the room price. For an additional fee, most hotels offer two or three meals a day.

There are also about 80 hostels (economy class youth hotels) throughout Switzerland; the cost of living in such hotels is about 15 - 20 francs per day. It can accommodate both individual tourists and families, tourist groups and even groups of schoolchildren of various ages. To stay in such a youth hotel, you must have a national or international Youth Hotel Card. There are no age restrictions, but during high season, those under the age of 25 have priority.

There are also a large number of campsites in Switzerland, but it is important to note that you can only set up camp in specially designated areas. In the summer, when this type of recreation is very popular, it is recommended to book campsites in advance.

Another alternative to staying in the country while on vacation is to rent an apartment. This is especially practiced in the Swiss Alps. For example, a four-room apartment can accommodate 8-10 people. The cost of rent depends on factors such as: the prestige of the resort, the size of the apartment, the cost of furniture and even kitchen utensils. It is also worth remembering that the price announced to you may not include a fee for bed linen, a deposit (on average 400 euros) in case you break something or break something, and a tax for accommodation (1 euro per person per day ). After you rent out your apartment, it undergoes so-called final cleaning, which you are also required to pay: it will cost from 20 to 50 euros, depending on the size of the room.

Sea and beaches

A beach holiday in Switzerland means relaxing on the country's many lakes.

Last changes: 09/01/2010

Story

The history of Switzerland is determined by its special geographical location, which had a significant impact on the development of the state and society as a whole.

The Swiss Confederation in its modern guise has existed only since 1848. Before that time, there was no history of Switzerland as such. We can only talk about the historical development of individual regions, which later united into a single Swiss state.

The settlement of the territory of modern Switzerland began from time immemorial. Scientists believe that the first settlements arose here in the 12th millennium BC. At first people lived in caves, and later - along the shores of lakes. Since 500 BC On the Swiss plateau lived mainly Celtic tribes, among which were the Helvetii. In 58 BC. e. these lands, as a result of Caesar's campaign, were captured. In the next three centuries, Roman influence contributed to the development of the culture of the population and its Romanization.

In the 4th-5th centuries. AD The territory of present-day Switzerland was captured by the German tribes of the Alemanni and Burgundians.

In the 6th-7th centuries. it became part of the kingdom of the Franks and in the 8th-9th centuries. was under the rule of Charlemagne and his successors. Under Charlemagne, Switzerland was divided into ten counties (Gaue).

In 843, the Treaty of Verdun led to the division of Switzerland into parts: the western, together with Burgundy, and the southern, together with Italy, went to Emperor Lothair, the eastern, along with all of Alemannia, went to King Louis the German. The subsequent fate of these lands is closely connected with the history of the Holy Roman Empire. After the collapse of the Carolingian Empire, they were captured by the Swabian dukes in the 10th century, but they were unable to keep them under their rule, and the region disintegrated into separate fiefs. In the 12th-13th centuries. Attempts were made to unite them under the rule of large feudal lords, such as the Zähringens, the founders of Bern and Fribourg, and the Habsburgs. In 1264 the Habsburgs gained a dominant position in eastern Switzerland. The Counts of Savoy gained a foothold in the west.

Having tried to abolish the privileges of some local communities in order to unify their possessions, the Habsburgs encountered strong resistance. At the center of this resistance were the peasants living in the mountain valleys of Schwyz (hence the name of the country Switzerland), Uri and Unterwalden. On August 1, 1291, these “forest” cantons concluded the “Eternal Alliance”, the meaning of which was mutual support in the fight against external enemies and, first of all, the Habsburgs. This is how the Swiss Confederation was founded. Traditionally, 1291 is considered the year of the formation of the Swiss Confederation.

Proof of the strength of the confederation was confirmed as early as 1315, when the highlanders of the forest cantons faced superior troops of the Habsburgs and their allies. At the Battle of Morgarten they won what is considered one of the most important victories in Swiss history. This victory encouraged other communities to join the confederation. In 1332-1353, the cities of Lucerne, Zurich and Bern, the rural communities of Glarus and Zug entered into separate agreements with the three united cantons, forming a number of confederations. Although these agreements did not have a common basis, they were able to ensure the main thing - the independence of each of the participants. Having been defeated at the battles of Sempach in 1386 and Näfels in 1388, the Habsburgs were finally forced to recognize the independence of the cantons, united in a confederation.

At the beginning of the 15th century. The confederates felt strong enough to go on the offensive. During numerous wars and campaigns against the Austrian Habsburgs and the Holy Roman Empire, the Dukes of Savoy, Burgundy, as well as Milan and the French King Francis I, the Swiss established a reputation as magnificent warriors. During the "heroic age" of Swiss history (1415-1513), the territory of the confederation expanded due to the annexation of new lands in Aargau, Thurgau, Vaud, as well as south of the Alps, resulting in the creation of 5 new cantons.

By 1798 Switzerland had become a confederation of 13 cantons. In addition to them, the confederation included lands that entered into an alliance with one or more cantons. There was no permanent central body: all-Union Sejms were periodically convened, where only full-fledged cantons had the right to vote. There was no all-Union administration, army or finance, and this situation remained until the French Revolution.

Religious reform, which began with Huldrych Zwingli's open challenge to the Roman Catholic Church, split the country into two camps. The Zwinglian movement of Protestantism subsequently merged with the movement of John Calvin from Geneva into the Swiss Reformed Church. The cantons of central Switzerland remained Catholic. After short religious clashes, an approximate balance was established between both religions.

In 1648, Swiss independence from the Holy Roman Empire was officially recognized by the Treaty of Westphalia.

In 1798, French troops invaded the country and occupied it. A single and indivisible Helvetian Republic is formed, which falls under the complete subordination of France.

After the defeat of the French, Switzerland regains independence and retains its territorial borders. It already includes 22 cantons. After lengthy negotiations, a Treaty of Union was developed, signed in September 1814. It proclaimed a union of 22 sovereign cantons, but did not indicate that they constituted one state. In the declaration of the Congress of Vienna (March 1815) and the Treaty of Paris (November 1815), the great powers recognized the eternal neutrality of Switzerland.

In subsequent years, internal divisions between the “conservative” and “radical” districts became increasingly noticeable. The conflict reached its climax when the radicals organized a military expansion against the canton of Lucerne; in response, Lucerne formed an alliance with Schwyz, Uri, Unterwalden, Zug, Friborg and Valais, called the Sonderbund. The civil war lasted only 26 days and resulted in the defeat of the Sonderbund. The war once again proved that the country is in a deep crisis and needs radical reforms.

On September 12, 1848, the fundamental law of the Swiss Confederation was signed, transforming the country from a weak union of individual cantons into a union state with a strong political system. A new era in the history of Switzerland begins. A permanent executive body was created in the form of a federal council of seven members elected by the legislature from two chambers - the national council and the council of cantons. The federal government was given the power to issue money, regulate customs regulations, and, most importantly, determine foreign policy. Bern was chosen as the federal capital.

The revised constitution of 1874 and subsequent amendments further strengthened the power of the federal government without compromising the federal basis of the Swiss state. Starting from the second half of the 19th century. A dense network of railways is being built, industry is developing, especially mechanical engineering, the chemical industry and watch production.

With the outbreak of the First World War, a threat arose to the national unity of Switzerland: the French-speaking Swiss mainly sympathized with France, and the German-speaking Swiss with Germany. Switzerland's role in World War II is controversial. Formally maintaining neutrality, the country bought peace of mind at the cost of political and economic collaboration. Switzerland opened huge loans to Germany, and also supplied the latest technologies necessary to strengthen military potential.

With the end of World War II, Switzerland decided not to join the newly formed United Nations (UN) and acquired observer status, which allowed the European headquarters and several specialized UN organizations to be located in Geneva, including the International Labor Organization and the World Health Organization. This decision strengthened Switzerland's position in international politics. The country is a member of several UN organizations: the International Court of Justice, the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) and the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees. Switzerland provides significant assistance to developing countries.

In 1979, a new canton was formed in Switzerland, called Jura.

In 1983, Switzerland became a full member of the Group of Ten, the grouping of major savers of the International Monetary Fund (IMF).

On December 12, 2008, Switzerland officially joined the Schengen visa-free area. Passport control has been canceled at all land checkpoints at the country's borders. At international airports, Switzerland has prepared its aviation terminals to handle intra-Schengen flights where passport control is not required, and has separated these flights from other international terminals.

Last changes: 05/09/2010

For the Swiss, talking about salary or source of income is considered a closed topic. Even close friends do not tell each other about these issues.

Switzerland is considered a rich country, and the majority of the population lives prosperously. Naturally, there are very rich people, but you won’t see them on the streets. They live modestly and do not advertise their millions.

The list of the 500 richest people in the world, compiled in 2007 by the American magazine Forbes, included 8 representatives of Switzerland. Ernesto Bertarelli is recognized as the wealthiest Swiss person. His fortune is equal to 8.8 billion dollars.

Switzerland attracts wealthy foreigners. According to the Swiss magazine Bilanz, of the ten richest residents of Switzerland, five have foreign citizenship. Their total wealth is CHF 103 billion. fr. ($78 billion). The richest foreigner living in Switzerland is the head of the Swedish company IKEA, Ingvar Kamprad, whose fortune is $33 billion. He is also ranked 4th on Forbes magazine's list of the world's 500 richest people.

In Switzerland, the most popular alcoholic drink is wine. Based on the results of 2005, the share of grape wines amounted to 50% of total sales. Beer accounted for only one third. The biggest beer drinkers, contrary to popular belief, are Italian-speaking Swiss, not German-speaking.

A characteristic feature of Swiss society, as well as European society in general, is late marriage. First, they receive a professional education, make a career, and, having reached a certain position in society, decide to start a family. The average age at first marriage is about 29 years for women and 31 years for men.

Most often, young people formalize their family relationships immediately before the birth of their first child together.

Regarding the number of children in the family, large families are a rare occurrence. On average, a family has no more than one or two children, as living expenses increase and large apartments become very expensive.

Only 1/3 of the Swiss population owns their own home. Compared to other European countries, this is a very low figure.

Modern rules for obtaining citizenship in Switzerland are among the most complex in Western Europe, so the number of foreigners obtaining Swiss citizenship is much lower than in any single European country. At the same time, the share of foreigners in the total population of Switzerland is very high, so in 2008. it amounted to 21.7%. It is worth noting that the distribution of foreigners across Switzerland is very uneven.

There is a particularly high percentage of foreigners among children. A census carried out in 2000 showed that 25.8% of children under 6 years of age did not have Swiss citizenship, and in the country's five major cities this number exceeded 45%. Approximately one in five children born in Switzerland has at least one parent with foreign nationality.

Almost all pharmacies in Switzerland are closed on Saturday and Sunday afternoons; there are pharmacies on duty only in large cities; in this situation, it would not hurt to take with you a standard set of medications that may be useful for minor ailments.

If you decide to travel around the country by car, you should remember that some sections of Swiss roads are toll roads, so you will have to pay a fee when entering them.

Also, do not forget that for failure to comply with even basic traffic rules in Switzerland, impressive fines are levied, and you will hardly see police officers on the roads; all violations are recorded by video cameras installed on the roads throughout the country.

Last changes: 01/20/2013

How to get there

Daily regular direct flights to Geneva and Zurich from Moscow are operated by Aeroflot (from Sheremetyevo-2) and Swiss (from Domodedovo). The flight duration to Geneva and Zurich is about three hours.

Rossiya also makes weekly flights to Geneva from St. Petersburg. In addition to direct regular flights, it is possible to fly in transit through Paris, Prague, Vienna, Dusseldorf and Amsterdam and other European cities. You can also fly to Switzerland from the airports of such Russian cities as Samara, Yekaterinburg, Rostov, but all of them with transit in European cities.

During the ski season and New Year's holidays, operators usually increase the number of flights and launch charters from Moscow to Geneva, Basel or Sion (which is in close proximity to Zermatt, Verbier, Saas-Fee and Crans-Montana).

The airports of Geneva and Zurich are combined with railway stations, so any destination can be reached with maximum speed directly on the day of arrival.

You can also travel from Moscow to Switzerland by train, which departs from the Belorussky railway station and arrives in the city of Basel. Travel time 1 day 15 hours.

Road from CIS countries

Daily regular flights from Ukraine are operated by Ukraine International Airlines and Swiss on the route Kyiv - Zurich. Austrian Airlines (via Vienna) and Malev (via Budapest) fly from Odessa to Geneva.

From the Belarusian capital, daily flights to Geneva are jointly operated by Belavia and Austrian Airlines (via Vienna), and Lufthansa planes fly through Frankfurt twice a week. On the route Minsk - Zurich, the national carrier of Belarus operates the following joint flights: once a week with LOT (via Warsaw), three times a week with Czech Airlines (via Prague) and daily with Austrian Airlines (via Vienna).

Regular flights of Turkish Airlines (via Istanbul), Lufthansa (via Frankfurt) and KLM (via Amsterdam) fly from Almaty to Geneva four times a week, and British Airways planes three times a week (via London).

Last changes: 02/07/2013

The report on Switzerland contains a brief description of the country. The story about Switzerland for children will be complemented by interesting facts about Switzerland.

Brief information about Switzerland

• Geographical location of Switzerland

Switzerland is located in the very center of Europe, between Lake Constance and Lake Geneva. The country is bordered in the north by Germany, in the east by Liechtenstein and Austria, in the south by Italy, and in the west by France.

• Languages ​​of Switzerland

The official languages ​​are German, French, Italian and Romansh. About 66% of the population speak German, 18% speak French, and 10% speak Italian.

• Population of Switzerland

The population of Switzerland is 8.4 million people (2016).

• Administrative structure of Switzerland

Form of government of Switzerland- a federal republic consisting of 20 cantons and 6 half-cantons. Each canton has its own constitution, government and parliament, but the sovereignty of the cantons is currently significantly limited. The head of state and government is the president.

• Cities of Switzerland

The capital of Switzerland is Bern.

The major cities of Switzerland are Bern, Zurich, Geneva, Basel and Lausanne.

• Industry of Switzerland

The most important industrial sectors are textile, clothing, engineering, food and chemicals.

• Nature of Switzerland

Switzerland is a country of mountains. These mountains are divided into three parts. The first is the Jura Mountains in the north. The second is the central Swiss plateau. And the third is the famous Alps in the south, occupying 60% of the territory of Switzerland.

There is no sea in Switzerland, but there are rivers. And the most stormy - Rhine, Aare, Rhone. There are enough forests in this country. And the lakes are so beautiful, clean and transparent that you can look in them like in a mirror.

Swiss watches, Swiss chocolate and cheese are famous all over the world.

Switzerland is famous for its mountain resorts

It is also famous for its banks, where the money of many rich people from different countries is kept.

The whole world knows this country as the birthplace of the folding knife with many blades

The highest railway is also located in Switzerland. And the highest amazing station is located on the most beautiful peak of the Bernese Alps called Jungfrau. Its height is 4158 meters.

Scientists Jean-Jacques Rousseau, Carl Jung, Albert Einstein, composers Richard Wagner and Sergei Rachmaninov lived and worked in Switzerland.

Switzerland receives 15% of its national income from the tourism industry.

SWITZERLAND
Swiss Confederation, a state in Central Europe. The government system is a federal republic. The area of ​​the country is 41.3 thousand square meters. km. In the north it borders with Germany, in the west with France, in the south with Italy, and in the east with Austria and Liechtenstein. The northern border is partly along Lake Constance and the Rhine, which begins in the center of the Swiss Alps and forms part of the eastern border. The western border runs along the Jura Mountains, the southern - along the Italian Alps and Lake Geneva. The capital of Switzerland is Bern.

Switzerland. The capital is Bern. Population - 7100 thousand people (1997). Population density: 172 people per 1 sq. km. Urban population - 61%, rural - 39% (1996). Area - 41.3 thousand square meters. km. The highest point is Peak Dufour (4634 m above sea level). The lowest point is 192 m above sea level. National languages ​​are German, French, Italian, Romansh. The main religions are Catholicism, Protestantism. Administrative division: 20 cantons and 6 half-cantons. Currency: Swiss franc = 100 rappenams (centimes). National holiday: Founding Day of the Confederation ("oath on Rütli") - August 1. National anthem: "Swiss Psalm".

NATURE
Surface structure. In Switzerland, three natural regions are distinguishable: the Jura mountain range in the northwest, the Swiss plateau (plateau) in the center and the Alps in the southeast. The Jura Mountains, separating Switzerland and France, stretch from Geneva to Basel and Schaffhausen. They alternate between mountain folds with a predominance of limestone and valleys; The folds are cut in places by small rivers, forming valleys with steep slopes (cluses). Agriculture is possible only in the valleys; The gentle slopes of the mountains are covered with forests or used as pastures. The Swiss plateau was formed at the site of a trough between the Jura and the Alps, which was filled with loose glacial sediments in the Pleistocene and is currently cut by numerous rivers. The surface of the plateau is hilly, agriculture is developed in the wide valleys, and the interfluves are covered with forests. Most of the country's population is concentrated here, large cities and industrial centers are located. The most fertile agricultural lands and pastures are concentrated in this area. Almost the entire southern half of Switzerland is occupied by the Alps. These high, rugged, snow-capped mountains are dissected by deep gorges. In the ridge zone there are firn fields and glaciers (10% of the country's territory). The wide bottom of the main valleys is used for fields and arable land. The area is sparsely populated. The Alps serve as the main source of income, as the picturesque nature of the highlands attracts many tourists and climbers. The highest peaks are Peak Dufour (4634 m) in the Monte Rosa massif on the border with Italy, Dom (4545 m), Weisshorn (4505 m), Matterhorn (4477 m), Grand Combin (4314 m), Finsterarhorn (4274 m) ) and Jungfrau (4158 m).

Rivers and lakes. Most of Switzerland is irrigated by the Rhine and its tributary the Are (the most important of its tributaries are the Reuss and the Limmat). The southwestern regions belong to the Rhone drainage basin, the southern ones to the Ticino basin and the southeastern ones to the Inn river basin (a tributary of the Danube). The rivers of Switzerland have no navigable significance. On the Rhine, navigation is maintained only as far as Basel. Switzerland is famous for its lakes, the most picturesque of which are located along the edges of the Swiss plateau - Geneva, Thun in the south, Firwaldstätt, Zurich in the east, Neuchâtel and Biel in the north. Most of these lakes are of glacial origin: they were formed during an era when large glaciers descended from the mountains onto the Swiss plateau. South of the Alpine axis in the canton of Ticino are lakes Lugano and Lago Maggiore.

Climate. Switzerland has pronounced climatic differences due to altitude and exposure to sun and winds. The climate is humid, on the plateau - moderately warm, in the mountains - cold. Daily temperatures in the lowlands fluctuate on average throughout the year from 10 to 16°C; in summer they rise to 27°C or more. The hottest month is July, the coldest is January. The highest peaks of the Alps are covered with eternal snow. The snow line rises to 2700 m on the western slopes and to 3200 m on the eastern ones. In winter, temperatures drop below 0°C throughout the country, with the exception of the northern shore of Lake Geneva and the shores of lakes Lugano and Lago Maggiore, some of which belong to Italy. The climate there is as mild as in Northern Italy, since the mountains protect against the invasion of cold northern winds (bizet). In January-February, when high pressure prevails over the Alps, clear, cold weather sets in, favorable for winter sports. The southern slopes receive a lot of solar heat at this time. In Switzerland there are frequent sharp strong winds accompanied by rain and snowfall. In spring, summer and autumn, foehns prevail - warm, dry winds blowing from the east and southeast. As currents of moist air from the Mediterranean Sea rise up the slopes of the Alps and then descend to the Swiss plateau, precipitation falls on the southern slopes almost twice as much as on the northern ones. The average annual precipitation in Basel (277 m above sea level) is 810 mm, in Lausanne (375 m) on the northern shore of Lake Geneva - 1040 mm, and in Davos (1580 m) in the southeast of the country - 970 mm.
Flora and fauna. The Swiss plateau is located in the zone of European broadleaf forests. The predominant species are oak and beech, with pine mixed in in some places. On the southern slope of the Alps the chestnut tree is typical. Higher up the mountain slopes, coniferous forests grow, forming a transition zone between broad-leaved forests and alpine meadows (at high altitudes). There are many bright colors in the mountains. Crocuses and daffodils bloom in spring, rhododendrons, saxifrages, gentians and edelweiss bloom in summer. The fauna has been strongly influenced by human economic activity. While snow partridge and mountain hare are still quite common, such characteristic animals of the upper tier of the mountains as roe deer, marmot and chamois are much less common. Great efforts are being made to protect wildlife. The Swiss National Park, located near the border with Austria, is home to roe deer and chamois, and less commonly, alpine ibex and fox; Ptarmigan and several species of birds of prey are also found.
POPULATION
Ethnic groups. The Swiss form a cohesive national community, although the population consists of ethnic groups speaking different languages ​​(German, French, Italian and Romansh) and often differing in religion. However, mutual tolerance and goodwill allow them to live and work in the same country. A typical Swiss national image has emerged - a short, stocky brown-haired or blond man with brown or gray eyes, who has a reputation as an enterprising, hard-working person with business acumen. Many Swiss occupy key positions in the economies of other countries. There are many foreigners living in Switzerland. In 1997, foreign workers and other foreigners made up 19.4% of the country's population. Most unskilled work in Switzerland is performed by foreign workers, who come mainly from Italy and other countries in Southern and Eastern Europe.
Languages. The official languages ​​of Switzerland are German, French and Italian. The Romansh language, derived from Latin and also having national status, is spoken by approximately 1% of the country's population. The most common language is German: its local dialect, Alemannic (Schwitzerdütsch), is used by 73% of Swiss citizens and 64% of the country's population. French is spoken by approx. 19% of the population, mainly in the cantons of Geneva, Vaud, Neuchâtel, Friborg and Valais. Speaks Italian approx. 4% are Swiss citizens (mainly in the canton of Ticino), and including foreign workers - 8% of the country's population. The Romansh language is spoken only in the mountainous canton of Graubünden.
Religion. At the end of the 1990s, 46% of the Swiss population were Catholics, 40% were Protestants. The proportion of Protestants declined after World War II due to the influx of foreign workers, mostly Catholics. As a result of a national referendum in 1973, two articles of the constitution were repealed, prohibiting the activities of the Jesuit order and the formation of religious orders. Confessional differences in Switzerland do not always coincide with linguistic boundaries. Among the Protestants one can find both French-speaking Calvinists and German-speaking followers of Zwingli. The centers of German-speaking Protestantism are Zurich, Bern and Appenzell. The majority of French-speaking Protestants live in the canton of Geneva and the neighboring cantons of Vaud and Neuchâtel. Catholics predominate in central Switzerland around the city of Lucerne, much of the French-speaking cantons of Friborg and Valais, and the Italian-speaking canton of Ticino. There are small Jewish communities in Zurich, Basel and Geneva.
Population. In 1997, the population of Switzerland was 7,097 thousand people and was concentrated mainly in the lowland areas. Large industrial centers - Zurich, Basel and Geneva - have the highest population density. The largest cities in the country (population in thousands in 1997): Zurich (339), Geneva (173), Basel (171), Bern (124), Lausanne (114), Winterthur (87), St. Gallen (71) and Lucerne (58).

STATE AND POLITICAL STRUCTURE
Federalism and democracy. The basic principles of the Swiss constitution of 1874 are federalism and democracy. Article 3 of the constitution guarantees the 20 cantons and 6 half-cantons into which Switzerland is divided all rights of self-government, with the exception of those that are the prerogative of the federal government. These include declaring war and concluding peace, signing international treaties and joining alliances, training, material support and leadership of the armed forces, and regulation of foreign trade. The federal government and cantonal authorities have the right to impose taxes. In addition, the federal government exercises control over communications, higher education, and labor. The adoption of the principle of federalism played a significant role in uniting the very diverse cantonal states into the first all-Swiss union state in 1848. Over time, the federal government began to more actively influence all aspects of life in the country. Nevertheless, the Swiss still feel a strong attachment to their native cantons and their traditions. Until 1971, Switzerland was one of the few countries in the world where women did not have the right to vote on a national level. In February 1971, the male electorate approved a constitutional amendment giving the country's women the right to vote and be elected in federal elections. At the cantonal level, the granting of voting rights to women was delayed: in the German-speaking semi-canton of Appenzell Innerrhoden, women finally received the right to vote only in 1991. The Swiss constitution also includes mandatory referendums on all amendments to the constitution, popular initiatives to put forward such amendments, and legislative referendums on certain laws and treaties. The same rights, often in conjunction with legislative initiative, apply at the cantonal and local levels. In addition, some cantons retained direct democracy in the form of a general assembly of residents (Landsgemeinde): a system of direct participation of all voters of a canton or locality in the approval of certain laws and the election of officials. Following a referendum held in March 1991, the voting age for federal elections was lowered from 20 to 18 years.
Political system. The main organs of the Swiss Confederation are the Federal Council, the Federal Assembly and the Federal Court. The executive body is a federal council of seven members elected by parliament for a term of four years. The only formal limitation on the composition of this body is that only one deputy can be elected from each canton. However, in fact, the composition of the council is strictly limited by tradition: for example, the main geographical regions of the country and two of the language groups (French- and Italian-speaking) must be represented in it. Since 1959, the composition of the council has wherever possible reflected the influence of the main political parties. Each year, one of the council members is elected President of Switzerland, but this position is not vested with special powers. Switzerland's legislative body, the Federal Assembly, consists of two chambers: the cantonal council, to which two representatives are elected from each canton and one from each half-canton, and the national council of 200 deputies, elected in proportion to the population of the cantons. The Assembly is elected for a term of four years. It has normal legislative powers, but some laws must be approved by popular referendum. The Swiss Federal Court is located in Lausanne, the other main government bodies are in Bern. The Federal Court serves as the country's supreme court, although it cannot declare federal laws unconstitutional. There are no lower federal courts, since the cantonal courts are responsible for applying federal laws at lower levels. The federal court consists of 26-28 judges and 11-13 jurors, who sit in separate rooms depending on the nature of the case. Members of the court are elected by the federal assembly for a term of six years. At the cantonal level, executive power is exercised by a state or government council of 5 to 11 members headed by a president (Landmann). Council members are elected by the population of the cantons for a term of 4 years (except Friborg, Appenzell-Ausserrhoden and Appenzell-Innerrhoden) and in some small cantons they work on a voluntary basis. Most cantons have a single legislative body - a large council, a land council, or a cantonal council, also elected for a term of four years. The legal authorities of the canton are represented by courts of two or three levels, depending on the size of the canton. Much of the local peculiarities of Swiss justice were eliminated with the introduction of a single national code of civil, commercial and criminal law in 1942.
Political parties. Switzerland has a multi-party system. On the right wing is the Christian Democratic People's Party (formerly the Conservative Social Christian or Conservative Catholic). It sees its main task as defending the teachings and institutions of the Roman Catholic Church and defending the rights of the cantons. On the left flank is occupied by the Social Democratic (or Socialist) Party, which advocates broad social reforms, including greater state participation in the country's economic life, but while maintaining a partnership between the state and private enterprise. At the center of the political spectrum is the Swiss Radical Democratic Party. She was truly radical by 19th century standards when she determined the country's policies. In modern conditions, this party has become relatively conservative. Each of the three parties holds about a fifth of all seats on the national council. This balance of power persists from election to election, which provides Switzerland with political harmony and stability. Since 1959, each of these parties has two of the seven seats in the Federal Council, and the remaining seat is occupied by a representative of the largest of the other parties - the Swiss People's Party (formerly the Party of Peasants, Craftsmen and Burghers). Other small parties include the Greens, the Union of Independents, the Liberal Party and the Freedom Party (formerly the Motorists' Party). The latter, formed in 1985, protects the rights of car drivers and advocates restricting immigration. The Swiss armed forces are based on a national militia system. Military service is universal and compulsory for all men aged 20 to 50, with periodic training. In the mid-1990s, in the event of full mobilization, the Swiss army would have numbered 625 thousand people. The country's air force consists of 250 combat units. There are no soldiers among the professional military personnel: there are 1,600 officers and sergeants serving as instructors.
Switzerland as an international center. Switzerland adheres to a traditional policy of neutrality and therefore does not join the UN. However, it takes part in the work of all specialized UN organizations; Geneva is home to the headquarters of the World Trade Organization, the International Labor Organization, the World Health Organization, the International Telecommunications Union, the World Meteorological Organization and the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees. Other organizations with a main seat in Switzerland are the World Council of Churches and the International Red Cross, founded by the Swiss Henri Dunant.
ECONOMY
General characteristics. Switzerland is poor in natural resources, apart from hydropower. Nevertheless, it is a prosperous country, in many respects the richest in Europe, primarily due to the high development of the manufacturing and service industries (tourism is especially important). During the period 1950-1990, the economy grew steadily, unemployment was kept low, inflation was contained by the Swiss National Bank, and business downturns were short-lived. The economic downturn that hit most European countries in the early 1990s also affected Switzerland: unemployment reached its highest level since 1939 and inflation rates increased. Nevertheless, the standard of living in the country remained very high. In 1997, the gross domestic product (GDP) of Switzerland was estimated nominally at 365 billion Swiss francs, in reality - at 316 billion. In per capita terms - 51.4 thousand Swiss francs (nominally) and 44.5 thousand (real).
Labor resources. In 1996, approximately 28% of the working population of Switzerland (in 1996 it was estimated at 3.8 million people) were employed in industry, 5% in agriculture and forestry and 6% in the service sector. Of these latter, approx. 23% worked in hotels, restaurants, wholesale and retail trade, approx. 11% - in banking and credit, insurance and entrepreneurship, approx. 6% in the transport and communications system. The unemployment rate in Switzerland in 1997 was 5.2%. In the same year, there were 936 thousand foreign workers who had a temporary residence permit in the country, of whom 30% were Italians and 15% Yugoslavs. In the early 1960s, the share of foreigners in the labor force reached 30%, but fell to 15% at the end of the same decade as a result of restrictions imposed by the Swiss government. Throughout the 1990s, foreign workers made up over 25% of all employment. They do most of the work that does not require qualifications, many of them are employed in construction, metallurgy and mechanical engineering.
Industry. The high standard of living of the Swiss population was achieved thanks to the large-scale development of various industries. The Swiss watch industry has gained worldwide fame, concentrated mainly in the western part of the country (La Chaux-de-Fonds, Neuchâtel, Geneva) and Schaffhausen, Thun, Bern and Olten. In the 1970s, due to competition from East Asian countries, this sector of the Swiss economy experienced a severe crisis, but in the 1980s it was overcome by the production of inexpensive electronic watches. The textile industry, the oldest in the country, has been a major industry for many years. However, during the Second World War there was a shift towards the metallurgy and chemical industries, and throughout the 1980s the production of machinery and equipment developed rapidly. In the 1990s, the production of chemicals and medicines, scientific and measuring instruments, optical instruments, machine tools and food products, especially cheese and chocolate, played a major role. Other industrial products included shoes, paper, leather and rubber products.
International trade. Switzerland's highly developed foreign trade is based on the export of industrial products such as machinery, watches, medicines, electronic equipment, chemicals and clothing. In 1991, the share of manufacturing products accounted for approx. 90% of the country's export earnings. Export structure in 1997: 20% - machinery and equipment; 9% - electrical machines and equipment; 9% - organic chemical products; 9% - pharmaceutical products; 6% - precision instruments and watches, 6% - precious metals, 4% - artificial materials. Switzerland's foreign trade balance usually ran a deficit, which was traditionally covered by the import of foreign capital, income from the export of capital, income from foreign tourism, insurance and transport. In the mid-1990s, thanks to improvements in imports, a small positive foreign trade balance was achieved for the first time: in 1997, the value of exports amounted to 105.1 billion Swiss francs, and imports - 103.1 billion. The leading foreign trade partners of Switzerland are Germany, the USA, Italy, France and Great Britain. Switzerland was one of the founding countries of the European Free Trade Association (EFTA) in 1959, in 1972 Swiss voters approved a free trade agreement with the European Economic Community (now the European Union, EU), and in 1977 all tariffs on industrial goods were abolished. In 1992, Switzerland applied to join the EU, but later that year Swiss voters voted against the country's entry into the European Economic Area (EEA). This project was aimed at facilitating the free movement of labor, goods, services and capital in 7 EFTA countries and 12 EU countries. After this, Switzerland entered into an agreement with the EU on limited participation in the EEA; as a result, Switzerland reduced duties on goods transported through its territory by EU member states.
Agriculture. About 12% of Switzerland's area is used for arable land and another 28% for extensive cattle ranching and dairy production. About a third of the country's territory is occupied by unproductive land (at least unsuitable for agriculture), especially in the cantons of Uri, Valais and Grisons, and a quarter is covered with forests. It is not surprising that 40% of food products have to be imported. At the same time, Switzerland provides itself with wheat; meat and dairy products are produced in abundance. The main centers of agriculture are concentrated in the cantons of Bern, Vaud, Zurich, Fribourg and Aargau. The main agricultural crops are wheat, potatoes and sugar beets. In 1996, the country had 1,772 thousand heads of cattle (of which about 40% were dairy cows), 1,580 thousand pigs, 442 thousand sheep and 52 thousand goats. The large timber processing industry serves domestic and foreign markets. However, in recent years, Switzerland's forests have been hit hard by air pollution, prompting the government to impose strict controls on vehicle exhaust emissions.
Energy. In 1996, 54% of Switzerland's energy was generated by hydroelectric power plants built on numerous mountain rivers. Five nuclear plants meet most of the country's energy needs. However, the use of nuclear energy remains in question: in 1990, Swiss voters approved a ten-year moratorium on the construction of new nuclear power plants. Switzerland has long remained a major oil importer, but natural gas imports since 1974 and energy conservation measures have led to a decline in oil imports. In 1991, crude oil came to Switzerland mainly from Libya and Great Britain, while refined petroleum products came from Germany, the Benelux countries and France. The main suppliers of natural gas are Germany and the Netherlands.
Transport and communications. Switzerland has a highly developed transport system. The Rhine, the largest navigable waterway, is navigable within Switzerland only on the 19 km section Basel - Rheinfelden. A large river port in Basel was put into operation. In the 1990s, its annual cargo turnover was 9 million tons. The Rhine-Rhone Canal is also of great importance for the transport of industrial goods. The length of the Swiss railway network in 1995 was 5,719 km. The railways are almost completely nationalized and electrified and are among the best in Europe. Since they were laid in highly rugged terrain, the construction of numerous bridges and tunnels was required. In 1995, Switzerland had over 71,380 km of first-class roads. The passenger car fleet in 1996 reached almost 3.3 million, i.e. There was one car for every two residents of the country. In 1964, the Grand Saint Bernard Tunnel was opened, the first road tunnel in the Alps. Built in 1980, the Gotthard Tunnel is currently the longest road tunnel in the world (16.4 km). Switzerland is the only country that does not have access to the seas, but has a significant navy. In 1941, it acquired several ocean-going vessels to support the delivery of important supplies during World War II, and continued to expand its fleet after the war. In 1985, the cargo turnover of its merchant fleet was estimated at 225.4 million registered tons. The fleet includes many modern vessels designed to transport from 6 thousand to 10 thousand tons of cargo, as well as several tankers. The federal government owns all telephone and telegraph lines, as well as the radio and television network. In the 1980s, a major program to modernize telecommunications systems was implemented.
Money circulation and banking activities. Switzerland is one of the most important financial centers in the world. Its banking system greatly exceeds the volume required for domestic transactions. There are two interconnected banking systems: the public system, which includes the Swiss National Bank and cantonal banks, and the private banking system. The Swiss National Bank, which began operations in 1907, is the only financial institution that issues national currency. The main monetary unit is the Swiss franc - one of the most stable currencies in the world. The National Bank is controlled by the federal authorities and has great influence on the economic policy of the confederation. The Swiss private banking system in the 1990s consisted of several large commercial banks, members of the Big Four: Schweizerischer Bankverein (SBF), Schweizerische Bankgesellschaft (SBG), Schweizerische Kreditanstalt and Schweizerische Volskbank. In 1997, the "Big Four" became the "Big Three" after the merger of the SBG with the SBF. There are also 28 cantonal banks, hundreds of regional and savings banks, financial campaigns and other banks, 20 of which are owned by foreigners. The role of foreign banks is increasing: in the late 1990s they owned more than 10% of Swiss banking holdings. Depositors have long been attracted to Swiss banks: in accordance with the Swiss banking law of 1934, banks are prohibited from providing information about their clients without their consent. Under pressure from other governments, especially the United States, regulations have been passed to allow the disclosure of deposits, especially when depositors are under investigation for currency crimes such as counterfeiting and insider trading. After much debate, the Swiss government in the late 1990s also allowed the secrets of deposits to be revealed in connection with the search for funds belonging to victims of the Nazi genocide. The Swiss Stock Exchange is one of the most active international markets for trading stocks and bonds. The exchange in Zurich is the largest in continental Europe. Switzerland also plays an important role in the global insurance market, especially in the field of commercial insurance. Some leading Swiss insurance companies derive more than half of their income from operations on the foreign market.
Tourism. The tourism industry is one of Switzerland's vital sources of income. In 1996, over 18 million people stayed in Switzerland on holiday, arriving mainly from Germany, Great Britain, France, the USA, the Benelux countries and Scandinavia.
Public finances. Switzerland's budget is usually more or less balanced, but in the early 1990s, due to the economic downturn, the expenditure side of the budget increased. In 1997, expenditures were estimated at CHF 44.1 billion and revenues at CHF 38.9 billion. The main sources of revenue were income taxes, turnover taxes and import duties.
SOCIETY AND CULTURE
Education. Universal primary and secondary education is the responsibility of the cantonal authorities, so the age limit for compulsory education varies. Most children attend school between the ages of 7 and 15 or 16 years. Almost all public schools are free. There are practically no illiterates in the country. There are many private schools in Switzerland that accept students from all over the world. There are 9 universities in the country - in Basel, Zurich, Bern, Geneva, Lausanne, Friborg, Neuchâtel, Lugano and St. Gallen. All of them are under the control of the cantons. There are many foreign students studying at universities. There are several other higher education institutions. The total number of students in 1997/1998 was 93 thousand.
Development of culture. Switzerland is a country with a rich cultural heritage. She gave the world many outstanding artists, writers and scientists. These are Nikolaus Manuel (1484-1530), a talented artist of the Renaissance, and the physician Paracelsus (c. 1493-1541), who is considered the first natural scientist of the modern era. The theologian Nicholas of Flues (1417-1487), who was canonized in 1947, received wide recognition. The activities of the great religious reformers Huldrych Zwingli (1484-1531) and John Calvin (1509-1564), as well as prominent psychologists Carl Gustav Jung (1895-1961) and Jean Piaget (1896-1980), are associated with Switzerland. Recognized Swiss artists include Heinrich Füssli (1742-1825), Ferdinand Hodler (1853-1918) and Paul Klee (1879-1940). The philosopher Jean-Jacques Rousseau (1712-1778), the sculptor Alberto Giacometti (1901-1966), the architect Le Corbusier (1887-1965), and the teacher Johann Heinrich Pestalozzi (1746-1827) were also natives of Switzerland.
Music and dancing. Swiss folk music includes song and instrumental music. A specific song genre of the Alpine mountaineers is yodeling, characterized by rapid transitions from the chest low register of the voice to the high head register (falsetto) and back. Swiss composers are famous: Otmar Scheck (1886-1957), Frank Martin (1890-1974) and Willy Burkhard (1900-1955). Arthur Honegger (1892-1955), who belonged to the modern French school, had Swiss parents, and he began to study music in Zurich. Several cities in Switzerland, most notably Zurich, Basel and Geneva, have ballet companies. In 1989, the innovative choreographer Maurice Bejart moved with his dance troupe from Brussels to Lausanne. Expressive traditional folk dances are showcased at national and regional festivals held annually in Switzerland.
Literature. Swiss literature has a rich tradition. Johann Bodmer (1698-1783) and Johann Brettinger (1701-1776) influenced German literature. The famous writer Germaine de Stael (1766-1817) had Swiss parents. Writer and educator Johann Rudolf Wys (1781-1830) is best known as the publisher of Swiss Robinson, a book written by his father, Johann David Wys (1743-1818). Johanna Spiri (1827-1901) became famous as the author of the classic children's book Heidi.
Other famous Swiss writers include Jeremiah Gotthelf, Gottfried Keller, Conrad Ferdinand Meyer, Rodolphe Tepffer and Karl Spitteler. Swiss writers of the 20th century. Albert Steffen and Charles Ferdinand Ramus (1878-1947), Max Frisch and Friedrich Dürrenmatt created many wonderful works. Payder Lancel, writing in Romansh, gained a reputation as an outstanding poet. The Swiss historian Jacob Burckhardt is known for his work The Culture of Italy in the Renaissance, and Johann von Müller (1752-1809, he earned the honorary nickname of the “Swiss Tacitus”) for his work Swiss History.
STORY
Creation of the Swiss Confederation. Among the Celtic tribes that inhabited the territory of Switzerland in prehistoric times, the Helvetii stood out, becoming allies of the Romans after they were defeated by Julius Caesar at the Battle of Bibractus in 58 BC. e. In 15 BC The Rhaetae were also conquered by Rome. In the next three centuries, Roman influence contributed to the development of the culture of the population and its Romanization. In the 4th-5th centuries. AD The territory of present-day Switzerland was captured by the German tribes of the Alemanni and Burgundians. In the 6th-7th centuries. it became part of the kingdom of the Franks and in the 8th-9th centuries. was under the rule of Charlemagne and his successors. The subsequent fate of these lands is closely connected with the history of the Holy Roman Empire. After the collapse of the Carolingian Empire, they were captured by the Swabian dukes in the 10th century, but they were unable to keep them under their rule, and the region disintegrated into separate fiefs. In the 12th-13th centuries. Attempts were made to unite them under the rule of large feudal lords, such as the Zähringens, the founders of Bern and Fribourg, and the Habsburgs. In 1264 the Habsburgs gained a dominant position in eastern Switzerland. The Counts of Savoy gained a foothold in the west. The Habsburgs encountered strong resistance when they tried to unify their domains by abolishing the privileges of some local communities. At the center of this resistance were the peasants living in the mountain valleys of Schwyz (hence the name of the country Switzerland), Uri and Unterwalden. These forest cantons, located on the strategically important road over the Gotthard Pass, benefited from the struggle between the Hohenstaufen emperors and the papacy. In 1231, Uri, and in 1240, Schwyz received the rights of imperial territories of the Holy Roman Empire, freed from dependence on petty feudal lords. After the death of Emperor Frederick II in 1250, the empire entered a period of decline, marked by civil war during the Great Interregnum of 1250-1273. The Habsburgs, who did not recognize the rights of Uri and Schwyz, tried to conquer Schwyz in 1245-1252. Uri and Unterwalden came to his aid and entered into a temporary alliance. In August 1291, the Swiss communities entered into a permanent defensive alliance and signed a treaty known as the "Eternal Alliance", the first documented evidence of cooperation between the forest cantons. This year marks the beginning of the official history of the Swiss state. Part of the traditional legend about these events, associated with the name of William Tell, is not confirmed in historical documents.

Growth and expansion of the confederation. The first proof of the strength of the confederation was given in 1315, when the highlanders of the forest cantons of Uri, Schwyz and Unterwalden faced superior forces of the Habsburgs and their allies. At the Battle of Morgarten they won what is considered one of the most important victories in Swiss history. This victory encouraged other communities to join the confederation. In 1332-1353, the cities of Lucerne, Zurich and Bern, the rural communities of Glarus and Zug entered into separate agreements with the three united cantons, forming a number of confederations. Although these agreements did not have a common basis, they were able to ensure the main thing - the independence of each of the participants. Having been defeated at the battles of Sempach in 1386 and Näfels in 1388, the Habsburgs were finally forced to recognize the independence of the cantons, united in a confederation. At the beginning of the 15th century. The confederates felt strong enough to go on the offensive. During numerous wars and campaigns against the Austrian Habsburgs and the Holy Roman Empire, the Dukes of Savoy, Burgundy and Milan, and the French King Francis I, the Swiss gained a reputation as magnificent warriors. They were feared by their enemies and respected by their allies. During the "heroic age" of Swiss history (1415-1513), the territory of the confederation expanded by annexing new lands in Aargau, Thurgau, Vaud, as well as south of the Alps. 5 new cantons were created. From 1513-1798 Switzerland became a confederation of 13 cantons. In addition to them, the confederation included lands that entered into an alliance with one or more cantons. There was no permanent central body: all-Union Sejms were periodically convened, where only full-fledged cantons had the right to vote. There was no all-Union administration, army or finance, and this situation remained until the French Revolution.
From the Reformation to the French Revolution. In 1523 Huldrych Zwingli openly defied the Roman Catholic Church and led a movement for religious reform in Zurich. He was supported by residents of a number of other cities in northern Switzerland, but in rural areas he met resistance. In addition, differences arose with the radical Anabaptist wing of his followers in Zurich itself. The Zwinglian movement of Protestantism subsequently merged with the movement of John Calvin from Geneva into the Swiss Reformed Church. Since the cantons of central Switzerland remained Catholic, a schism along religious lines was inevitable. After short religious clashes, an approximate balance was established between both religions. In 1648, Swiss independence from the Holy Roman Empire was officially recognized by the Treaty of Westphalia. Political life of Switzerland in the 18th century. was calm. The Bernese naturalist and poet Albrecht von Haller (1708-1777), the historian J. von Müller, as well as the Geneva-born philosopher Jean Jacques Rousseau and the great educator and humanist from Zurich I. G. Pestalozzi became famous in the “Age of Enlightenment.” At this time, a stream of foreign guests rushed to Switzerland, among them Voltaire, Gibbon and Goethe.
Revolution and restoration of the Confederacy. The French Revolution had a profound impact on Switzerland, both politically and philosophically. In 1798, French troops invaded the country and occupied it. The French provided the conquered cantons with a constitution that replaced the loose federation with a "single and indivisible Helvetic Republic." Revolutionary ideas of democracy, civil liberties and centralized power led to the creation of a strong centralized government for the first time in Swiss history. The Constitution of 1798, based on the constitution of the first French Republic, provided all Swiss with equal rights before the law and a code of civil liberties. However, it encroached on traditional federalism, and many Swiss did not want to recognize it. The struggle between the federalists, who opposed the new system, and the centralists, who supported it, temporarily subsided when Napoleon Bonaparte in 1802 granted the republic a constitution known as the "Act of Mediation (mediation)." It restored many of the cantons' previous privileges and expanded the number of cantons from 13 to 19. After Napoleon's defeat, the cantons disassociated themselves from the regime imposed by the French and attempted to revive the old confederation. After lengthy negotiations, a Treaty of Union was developed, signed in September 1814. It proclaimed a union of 22 sovereign cantons, but did not indicate that they constituted one state. In the declaration of the Congress of Vienna (March 1815) and the Treaty of Paris (November 1815), the great powers recognized the eternal neutrality of Switzerland.
Civil war and the new constitution. Over the next three decades, liberal sentiment grew in Switzerland. In response to the actions of radicals in the Diet and in some cantons (closing of monasteries in Aargau, expulsion of the Jesuits), seven conservative Catholic cantons formed the Sonderbund defensive union. In 1847, the Sejm, by a small majority of votes, announced the dissolution of this association. The federal army, under the leadership of General Guillaume Dufour, won the civil war before European powers could intervene in the conflict. As a result of the victory over the Sonderbund, a new constitution was adopted (1848). A balance was achieved between the aspirations of the centralist radicals and the federalist conservatives. From a fragile union of cantonal states, Switzerland turned into a single union state. A permanent executive body was created in the form of a federal council of seven members elected by the legislature from two chambers - the national council and the council of cantons. The federal government was given the power to issue money, regulate customs regulations, and, most importantly, determine foreign policy. Bern was chosen as the federal capital. The revised constitution of 1874 and subsequent amendments further strengthened the power of the federal government without jeopardizing the federal basis of the Swiss state. In the last decades of the 19th century. Swiss industry developed and railway construction began. Imported raw materials were processed into high-quality products, which were then supplied to the world market.
Switzerland in the world wars. With the outbreak of the First World War, a threat arose to the national unity of Switzerland: the French-speaking Swiss mainly sympathized with France, and the German-speaking Swiss with Germany. The four-year mobilization placed a heavy burden on the country's economy, there was a shortage of industrial raw materials, unemployment grew, and there was a shortage of food. General discontent resulted in mass strikes in November 1918. In 1919, Geneva was elected as the headquarters of the League of Nations. Switzerland became a member of this organization only after heated internal debates and after receiving guarantees of its neutrality. The outbreak of World War II found the country's population more united: few people in Switzerland welcomed Nazism. However, strategically the position of the confederation was much more vulnerable, since it was surrounded by totalitarian powers.
Foreign policy. With the end of World War II, the League of Nations ceased to exist. Switzerland decided not to join the newly created United Nations (UN) and acquired observer status, which allowed the European headquarters and several specialized UN organizations to be located in Geneva, including the International Labor Organization and the World Health Organization. Switzerland considered that refusal to join the UN was the best way to maintain its independent position as a neutral country in the ever-changing balance of power on the world stage. This decision strengthened Switzerland's position in international politics. The country is a member of several UN organizations: the International Court of Justice, the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) and the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees. Switzerland provides significant assistance to developing countries. Following a traditional policy of neutrality, Switzerland faced great difficulties in participating in various European integration plans in the 1950s and early 1960s. In 1948, it joined the Organization of European Economic Cooperation, but refrained from joining the European Economic Community (later the European Union, EU). The obvious political goals of this organization were unacceptable to Switzerland. However, it became one of the founding countries of the European Free Trade Association in 1959, and in 1963 it joined the Council of Europe, again demonstrating its interest in European cooperation. In 1972, a national referendum ratified a free trade agreement with the EU, according to which tariffs on all industrial products were gradually removed by 1977. In 1983, Switzerland became a full member of the Group of Ten, the grouping of major savers of the International Monetary Fund (IMF).
Political and social changes. In the 1960s, Switzerland faced a severe internal problem. Several French-speaking districts located in the Jura Mountains in the canton of Bern demanded the formation of a new canton. This met with resistance from the German-speaking population of the region. Federal troops were sent in to prevent clashes. In the early 1970s, voters in the canton of Bern approved a referendum in the French-speaking districts on the issue of secession. As a result of a series of plebiscites held over a number of years, three of the seven districts and several border communities voted to create a new canton. This new canton was named Jura. The decision was then approved by a national referendum in 1978, and the new canton joined the confederation in 1979. In the 1960s, noticeable tensions arose over the issue of the large number of workers from southern European countries coming to work in Switzerland. Despite the traditional international character of the country and the need for foreign participation in its economic life, many Swiss were hostile towards migrants from southern Europe and considered them to be responsible for the country's internal problems, such as the housing shortage. Accordingly, the government introduced restrictions that sharply reduced the share of foreigners among the workforce. The political movement, which demanded a further reduction in the number of foreign workers, did not achieve much support in the elections, but was able to organize referendums in 1970, 1974 and 1977 on constitutional amendments to limit the share of foreigners in the Swiss population. These proposals were not approved, but attempts to limit the presence of foreigners in Switzerland continued in the 1980s and 1990s. In 1982, voters rejected a government proposal to liberalize rules governing the stay of foreign workers and their families, and in 1987 immigration was further restricted. In 1994, referendum participants approved a tightening of the law on the stay of foreigners. Nevertheless, the contingent of foreign workers remains large - 25% of the total number of employees. At the same time, the number of foreign nationals living in Switzerland has increased to approximately 1.4 million. Many of them are refugees from Bosnia and Herzegovina and developing countries. In the mid-1980s, the Swiss government made attempts to end the country's isolation and conclude a number of bilateral and multilateral agreements with EU countries. In a 1986 referendum, Swiss voters overwhelmingly rejected the government's proposal to join the UN, but six years later they voted for Swiss participation in the IMF and the World Bank. In December 1992, seven months after the government announced Switzerland's intention to join the EU, the population rejected the proposal to join the European Economic Area, which since January 1994 has included the countries of the European Free Trade Association with the EU in a single free trade area. Switzerland's attitude towards the gradually strengthening EU remained a stumbling block for the country's foreign policy in the late 1990s. The 1995 elections revealed a growing polarization of voters' opinions on this issue. The greatest success in them was achieved, on the one hand, by the Social Democrats, who actively support integration, and on the other, by the right-wing Swiss People's Party, which opposes not only joining the EU, but also against participation in the European Economic Area and cooperation between Switzerland and other trading countries. and political unions. The decision taken in 1996 to allow the Swiss armed forces to participate in the maneuvers and technological programs of the Partnership for Peace organization caused violent protests in the country. Controversy over monetary contributions from victims of Nazi genocide. In the late 1990s, the Swiss government was involved in an international dispute over the return by private Swiss banks of gold and other valuable property confiscated by Nazi Germany during World War II from victims of the genocide. The subject of discussion was also the cash deposits and valuables placed by European Jews in Swiss banks before and during the war in order to protect them from capture by the Nazis. Immediately after the war, Switzerland agreed to return the stolen deposits to the victims and their heirs. But in court cases that attracted much public attention in the mid-1990s, private plaintiffs and Jewish legal groups argued that Switzerland had failed to live up to its obligations and accused Swiss banks of preventing heirs from accessing "frozen" accounts. deceased investors. Since 1996, American local and federal politicians and organizations have launched a campaign to return the so-called. Nazi gold, and many US municipalities, including New York City, threatened to impose economic sanctions against Swiss banks if the latter refused to assist the plaintiffs. In August 1998, the Schweizerische Kreditanstalt banking group and the SchBF agreed to pay $1.25 billion in compensation to the victims of the genocide and their heirs. After this, threats of sanctions were stopped. The controversy damaged Switzerland's international prestige and caused outrage in the country. The US and European media often portrayed Swiss bankers and diplomats as extremely unsympathetic people who showed indifference to the claims of genocide victims. Public attention was also drawn to the aid that came to Nazi Germany from Switzerland. Despite the country's neutrality, Swiss industrialists supplied raw materials and industrial products to Hitler's Germany. Many Swiss politicians felt that US officials were portraying them as villains; The Swiss were of the opinion that the agreement reached was a capitulation to outside pressure, humiliating for the nation as a whole.
The fight for women's rights. The women's enfranchisement movement, which first achieved success in the French-speaking cantons in the late 1950s, achieved its main goal only in 1971, when women gained the right to vote and be elected in federal elections. However, in a number of cantons, women continued to face obstacles for a long time in exercising their voting rights in local elections. In 1991, in the German-speaking semi-canton of Appenzell-Innerrhoden, the last Swiss territory to oppose women's emancipation, they gained the right to participate in annual meetings of voters. The next step was the adoption of a constitutional amendment in 1981 guaranteeing equal rights for women. In 1984 Elisabeth Kopp became the first woman elected to a federal council. In 1985, women were granted equal rights in the family (before this, the husband was considered the head of the family, which allowed him to unilaterally manage family finances and not allow his wife to work). In 1991, the city council of Bern decided that its membership should not be more than 60% of the same gender.
Environmental protection measures. Switzerland's transit position in the system of meridional European transportation carried out by heavy vehicles has complicated the environmental situation on the country's mountain roads. In addition, exhaust gases contributed to the destruction of forests that protect mountain villages in Switzerland from avalanches and mudflows. To reduce exhaust emissions from vehicles, the Swiss government introduced road taxes in 1985, established a maximum weight limit for vehicles (28 tons), and limited traffic at night and on weekends. In a 1994 referendum, voters approved a decision that by 2004 foreign commercial cargo would have to be transported through Switzerland only by rail.
Economic development. Until the end of the 1980s, Switzerland had a positive budget balance. Its economy was characterized by low inflation, low unemployment and low interest rates. In 1988 and 1989, budgets exceeded revenues by $900 million and $300 million, respectively; unemployment in 1987 reached a record low of 0.7%. However, rising inflation (6% in 1991) prompted the Swiss National Bank to raise interest rates and limit the issue of money. In the early 1990s, there was a recession in the country's economy. Although gross domestic product contracted by less than 1% between 1991 and 1993, the unemployment rate reached 3.6% in 1992 and 4.5% at the end of 1993, mainly due to a decline in construction and engineering jobs. In 1994 there were signs of economic recovery, especially in international financial services, but unemployment in manufacturing and other industries continued to rise. In 1997, the situation improved due to increased exports, demand revived, and investments increased, but investment in construction continued to decline.
LITERATURE
Sabelnikov L.V. Switzerland. Economics and foreign trade. M., 1962 Mogutin V.B. Switzerland: big business in a small country. M., 1975 Dragunov G.P. Switzerland: history and modernity. M., 1978 A manual on democracy: The functioning of a democratic state using the example of Switzerland. M., 1994 Schaffhauser R. Fundamentals of Swiss communal law using the example of communal law of the canton of St. Gallen. St. Petersburg, 1996

Collier's Encyclopedia. - Open Society. 2000 .

Many people hesitate when answering the question of what is the capital of a country like Switzerland: Bern or Geneva. The first of these cities is the main administrative, political and diplomatic center of the state. In addition, based on the provisions of UNESCO, since the end of the twentieth century, its ancient part has been included in the list of the world's largest cultural heritage. Geneva is one of the largest centers of diplomatic international activity. Many conferences, sessions and meetings are held here all year round, in which leaders of almost all countries on the planet take part. This is where the confusion comes from. Be that as it may, there is only one correct answer to the question of what is the capital of Switzerland - Bern.

Brief history of foundation

The city is one of the most beautiful and oldest in Europe. It has preserved a large number of architectural monuments of the Middle Ages. Bern was founded in 1191 by Duke Berthold V. Ancient chronicles indicate that while hunting he liked the picturesque view that opened onto steep slopes overgrown with mighty oaks, pines and spruces. It was then that the duke came up with the idea of ​​​​founding a city here and calling it after the beast, which would become the first prey. This animal turned out to be a bear, and the future capital of Switzerland (photos below) received the name Bern (translated from German, “Bären” means “bears”). Related to this is the fact that sculptures of this beast are installed everywhere, and the central square is named after it. Moreover, his image is also on the city symbols.

Big fire

Initially, mainly oak wood was used in the construction of the city. In 1405, there was a severe fire here that destroyed more than 550 houses. Moreover, the disaster claimed the lives of almost a hundred people. In this regard, buildings were subsequently erected from stone. In a short period of time, Bern became a major trading center and subjugated many territories. For a very long time it was the center of one of the cantons, a member of the Confederation and the residence of the local ruler. Since 1638, the local landscape has remained virtually unchanged. After the formation of Switzerland as a single state in 1848, the city was proclaimed the administrative center of the country.

Flag and coat of arms

Like all other cities, the capital of Switzerland has its own symbolism. Its flag is a red square cloth. From the shaft from top to bottom to the tip it is intersected by a wide golden stripe. In the center is an image of a black bear, borrowed from the official coat of arms of Bern, which will be discussed later. This symbol is made in the form of a heraldic shield of the Spanish traditional form. Its main field is red. The shield is crossed diagonally by a gold stripe, thereby broadly repeating the design of the flag mentioned above. Moreover, the coat of arms also contains a stylized black bear profile. The animal itself stands on all its paws, and its tongue and claws are red.

general description

The city of Bern (Switzerland) is located in the southern part of the Swiss plateau, on the banks of the Aare River. If you look at a map of the state, the administrative center can be seen in the central part. The local terrain is uneven, and the historical part of the city lies on a hill, at an altitude of 542 meters above sea level. Bern's population is just over 134 thousand people. Its total area is 51.6 square kilometers. The city is very green, but the vegetation is mostly artificial. Indeed, local residents pay quite a lot of attention to outdoor landscaping, installing flower baskets, garlands and pots on balconies, windows and next to their houses.

Climate

The capital of Switzerland is located in an intermediate zone between continental temperate and maritime humid climates. This explains the fact that there is neither sweltering heat nor severe frosts here. The most comfortable time to stay in Bern is considered to be the period that begins in mid-April and ends at the end of September. The fact is that at this time the air temperature ranges from 18 to 27 degrees above zero. Moreover, during this period the sun shines brightly almost constantly, and rains, if they happen, are short-lived. In winter, the city is quite cold and cloudy, and the air temperature ranges from 1 to 5 degrees Celsius.

Urban transport

Walking around the central part of the city is very pleasant on foot. At the same time, you can use public transport services. The capital of Switzerland has a fairly developed network of bus and tram routes. You can purchase tickets from vending machines at bus stops. The fare for six stops is 1.9 US dollars. If you need to travel a lot, it is recommended to buy a ticket for the whole day, for which you need to shell out twelve dollars. Night buses also run in Bern, the fare for which is five dollars. Bicycle rental has become quite popular here in recent years. It should be noted that the first four hours of this service are free. After this time has expired, you will have to pay one dollar for each additional hour. The only caveat is that for rent you need to leave a passport and twenty dollars as a deposit.

Accommodation

Bern has a large number of hotels, hotels and hostels of varying levels of comfort. At the same time, it should be noted that the capital of Switzerland (like the whole country) is quite expensive in terms of living. Indeed, for an overnight stay in the simplest two-star hotel you will have to pay at least fifty dollars. This payment is considered very high even by European standards. In general, the city is dominated by hotels whose level of comfort is rated three or four stars. The cost of rooms in them ranges from 100 to 800 dollars per day.

Main attractions

The capital of Switzerland, Bern, is convenient for tourists because most of the local attractions are concentrated in its historical center. It, in turn, is located in close proximity to the railway station. One of the most popular places among tourists is the Bear Pit, which is an open enclosure with animal symbols of the city. In addition, there is also a park with these animals and a large number of their sculptures. Nearby there is a church built in the Baroque style, the history of which dates back to the Middle Ages. Directly on Bear Square rises a massive tower called “Kefigturm”.

The fountain, which both frightens and attracts with its original name - “Child Eater”, deserves special mention. Several centuries ago it was built with the purpose of intimidating little sinners in case of their bad behavior. The Zytgloggeturm bell tower, which dates back to the twelfth century, has become an iconic site for Bern. It has a large clock installed on it, which shows not only the time, but also the days of the week, the month, and even the phases of the moon with the signs of the zodiac. Kramgasse is considered one of the most beautiful streets in all of Switzerland. There are many old houses here, in one of which Albert Einstein once lived. It is also worth noting the Federal Parliament building, the Cathedral, the Clock Museum, as well as the Alpine, Postal and Historical museums.