Switzerland (Swiss Confederation) is a landlocked federal republic in Western Europe. On all sides it is surrounded by neighboring European states: in the south - Italy, in the north - Germany, in the east it borders with Liechtenstein and Austria, and in the west it is in contact with France. Its territory is divided into 3 regions: Jura mountains (north side), plateau (center), Alpine mountains, which occupy more than half of the entire country. Includes 26 cantons (administrative-territorial units).
Switzerland in terms of population takes 94th place in the world, about 7.8 million people live within it, 90% of which are Swiss, the rest are foreigners of different nationalities. There is no common language in the republic, but the most common languages are French, Italian, German and Romansh. The generally accepted currency is presented in the form of a monetary unit - Swiss franc.
In Switzerland, about 50% of believers are supporters of Catholicism, the second place is held by Protestants (45%), 5% of people practice other religions. The largest Roman Catholic church is known throughout the country.
Switzerland - the capital and major cities
The capital of Switzerland and one of the largest cantons is Bern, which is located in the Aare river valley, in the central part of the country. 335,000 people live here, including the suburbs. The cultural significance of the city is great, it has maintained its integrity for many centuries - major wars bypassed the capital. The city is considered the property of world culture throughout Europe. Its architectural appearance reflects a rich history, medieval fortifications in the old city have retained their originality.
Bern is one of the largest European centers with a developed tourist infrastructure. What attracts tourists here so much? Of course, magnificent landscapes, visible tops of the Alpine mountains, a variety of cultural and historical values. In addition, well-known ski resorts are located near the city.
Other major cities in Switzerland include: Basel, Zurich, Geneva, Lausanne, St. Galen and Winterthur.
Switzerland - holidays and tours
The Swiss take care of their natural wealth and resources - tourism brings them considerable income. Every year, those who want to relax in the republic are increasing. The country offers guests the most diverse range of entertainment and recreation. This includes excursions, and visits to ski resorts, and an overview of local attractions, and, of course, wellness tours to thermal spas are of great importance.
The country is famous for its huge abundance of lakes, which you definitely want to visit. Mysterious, unusually magnificent nature, mirrored clean waters, clean air will allow you to plunge into the paradise world, relax from the noisy and polluted civilization, relax and improve your health.
Thermal health resorts receive guests all year round. Bad Zurzach, Bad Ragaz, Leukerbad, Yverdon offer various anti-aging, strengthening and stress-relieving procedures.
Grindelwald ("the village of glaciers") - a famous ski resort will give a lot of pleasant and exciting emotions. Even in summer you can "ride with the breeze" on skiing.
Switzerland - Attractions
A small state with elegant cities, first-class hotels, pristine lakes and picturesque nature is unique. Here are concentrated all the beauties so skillfully created by nature itself and by human hands.
Switzerland has a rich cultural and historical heritage, history has left its mark in many parts of the country. For example, looking at the ruins in Avenches and Nyon, you involuntarily recall the Romans. And Gothic, Romanesque architectural monuments are the pride of the cities of Geneva, Basel and Lausanne. The fortress of the Renaissance, Castello di Montebello, has also been preserved. The fortress has high attendance; people from many countries of Europe come to see this historical miracle.
Museums and musical theaters will not leave indifferent true connoisseurs of art. And in the eastern part you will see the Rhine Falls. The western side, where the Jura Mountains are lined, is a grandiose natural park with picturesque mountain slopes, deep canyons, flowering vineyards, lakes Biel, Neuchâtel and Lake Geneva, which is considered a separate attraction.
Castles, Towers, Chapels, fortresses - an integral part of many cities in Switzerland, which every traveler needs to contemplate. Merging with history and knowing its depths is very important for modern man.
Switzerland - weather (climate)
The general climate in the country is temperate, but in many respects depends on the height above sea level. The influence of the Atlantic Ocean prevails in the western part. In the eastern side and mountainous areas, features of the continental climate are pronounced.
In the summer months, the temperature rises from +18 to +30, and in the winter months it drops to +5, -2 degrees. In autumn and spring, the temperature usually ranges from +7 to +16 gr. In the mountains, winter is relatively cool: the temperature can drop to -12 or more degrees. In the first half of winter, the Atlantic Ocean brings with it strong winds with rain and fog.
Weather in Switzerland now:
Switzerland - national cuisine
Swiss cuisine deserves the attention of gourmets from around the world. Despite the fact that neighboring states influenced its formation, the country has an enormous amount of its delicacies, which are also popular in other countries.
The famous fondue - a traditional dish - is slices of fresh soft bread soaked in melted cheese. This is usually served with a glass of white wine. Another terrific dish is Raclette from Wallis: cheese is grated on a coarse grater and heated with potatoes. For the preparation of delicacies, selected varieties of cheeses are used: Emmental, Appenzell and Graier cheese, which are the most popular among gourmets.
The Swiss enrich their diet with various soups. For example, barley soup from Busekk, Basel flour stew, and also famous for corn grits soup with slices of selected fruits and with the addition of cream. You should definitely try risotto - pilaf with mushrooms and vegetables. Local chefs cook it according to a special recipe, the secret of which is not disclosed.
Fish and meat dishes are an indispensable attribute of the Swiss table. Trout, rudd, aigley and pike complement the various dishes. Another delicacy that deserves your attention is Bünden meat, cooked according to a unique recipe.
Switzerland - interesting facts
1. The Lord deprived the country of minerals, but gave an extraordinary nature.
2. In the state there is not a single millionaire city.
3. Switzerland is the only confederation in the world.
4. Swiss children begin to learn the school system from the age of 4.
5. The country has banned the sale of alcohol after nine in the evening.
6. In the republic, everyone can receive a free education, including foreigners.
7. In order to cut down any tree, it is necessary to obtain approval from the authorities, even if it is planted on your land.
Switzerland - visa application
A visa is required to enter the territory of a European state. It can be single and multiple, it is also possible to get a Schengen and national visa. The term of its execution is 5-8 days, the initial cost is from 145 cu For more information, it is advisable to contact the embassy.
Embassy of Switzerland in Moscow
Address: 101000, per. Garden Sloboda, 2/5
Phone: (495) 258-3838, 258-3840, 258-3839
Map of Switzerland
