Switzerland

Capital of Switzerland: Bern
Population of Switzerland: 7,639,961
Total area of Switzerland: 41,277 km2

Switzerland is a tiny country located in West Central Europe. Its flag is red with a white cross in the middle of it. Its emblem and coat of arms are also red with a white flag in the middle of it. The flag is roughly square.

Switzerland population

Switzerland has several languages of which German is 64 percent. French is spoken by 20 percent and Italian and Romansh are minority languages. As a result is has four official languages. Romansh is a rarely spoken Romance language. The German spoken in Switzerland is called Swiss German but Swiss Standard German is what’s written in the media. The Swiss are the majority population followed by Germans, Italians and Portuguese. Some refugees have come from Sri Lanka. The Swiss have a high life expectancy and about three fourths of the population live in urban areas. The religion is split roughly half and half between Catholicism and Protestantism.  

History of Switzerland

Switzerland has existed in its present state from the time of the Swiss Federal Constitution in 1848. People have lived in the area since 150,000 years ago and farming archeological settlements have existed since 5300 BCE. It was the first Roman settlement on the Rhine River. In the early part of the middle ages (around the 4th century), Switzerland was part of the Burgundian Kingdom. What is modern Switzerland today was half Alemannia and half Burgundy. The Swiss were under Frankish rule throughout the Middle Ages. The Habsburgs ruled around the 13th century. There were struggles between the Catholics and Protestants around 1650-1700 CE. Switzerland was conquered by the French in 1798 but became its own country in 1815. It remained neutral in all world wars since then.

Switzerland Tourism

There is no summer or winter destination quite like Switzerland.  Its sparking white Alpine peaks and beautiful lakes are just part of the attractive package that make this country so memorable. Switzerland has four languages—Swiss German, French, Italian and Romansch—a reflection of its mishmash culture. This country is home to World Heritage Sites like the abbey complex of St Galle or the frescoes of Müstair. In Lausanne and Bern, you will find gorgeous cathedrals and you’ll also find enchanting towns that will leave you spellbound. Another place you should take note of is Chillon Castel, which is Switzerland’s most famous castle. Explore the ancient city of Geneva on foot and discover the magnificent Cathédrale de St Pierre. Get on board the Glacier Express and experience of one of the greatest rail journeys in Europe, from St Moritz. Enjoy the cheese in Gruyères as well as Vaois’ finest wines.

Switzerland’s religion is dominated by Catholics and Protestants with a small group of other religions.  Rösti or grated potato fried in a pancake is its famous nation dish, which is served in different regions. The Swiss take pride in the mostly untouched beauty of their country and do their best to preserve and protect it. When invited for a meal, it is customary to present your host or hostess flowers. The choice of flowers should not be chrysanthemums or white asters as the Swiss consider them to be funeral flowers.

A country with a diverse culture and breathtaking spots, visiting Switzerland feels like Italy, France and Germany all rolled into one.