Travel Guide Switzerland with travel tips for Switzerland
The country of Switzerland, with a population of 7.4 million, is comprised of three main types of landscapes. The Swiss Alps are a mountain range that runs across the central-south of the country, the Swiss Mittelland which extends from Lake Constance to Lake Geneva, and the Swiss Jura, which are mountains that run along the northwest border of France. The capital of this small country is Berne. The national languages of Switzerland are German, French, Italian, and Romansh which is a form of Latin. English is also widely spoken throughout this country. A lack of excessive heat, cold, or humidity make the climate of Switzerland moderate.
History
Switzerland was founded over 700 years ago. The country hasn't been involved in an international war since 1815. In 58 BC, Ceasar prevented a group of people known as the Helvetians from immigrating to France. The Roman Helvetians settled into the Alps of Switzerland. Switzerland became independent from the Holy Roman Empire in 1648. Many wars among states ensued before this independence occurred. The Swiss were governed by the Old Swiss Confederacy during this period of time. Conquest by Napoleon in 1798 ended this Confederacy. In 1848, Switzerland became a federal republic comprised of twenty-six states or cantons.
Culture and Sightseeing
The country of Switzerland boasts a vast selection of museums-some with international reputations. There are numerous impressive castles and noble houses available for touring as well. Symphonies, operas, and theaters also abound in this European country. Churches, monasteries, and abbey libraries hold unique opportunities to experience the ancient culture and history of Switzerland. Music, film, and dance festivals are held throughout the country during high season.
Eat & Drink
Switzerland is world-renowned for its fine cheeses and chocolates. There is no single cuisine that dominates the country though there are many traditional regional dishes found throughout Switzerland. Each city holds a market several times a week to offer fresh foods from farmers, butchers, bakers, and cheese makers. The Ballenberg Museum is an open-air musuem that showcases butchers, bakers, cheese makers, and chocolatiers at work. A hiking path between Chasseral and Frinvilliers gives tourists the opportunity to visit several alpine huts where regional specialties such as cheese and ham are available.