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 accurate watches, sharp knives and cans. Switzerland also attracts millions of tourists who want to ride the slopes of the mountains in the Alps, admire the lakes and the abundance of interesting places with a rich history. Swiss castles, located on the slopes of the mountains, surrounded by pine trees, look like in a fairy tale.

General information

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

Surprisingly, Switzerland does not have a clear capital, like Paris in France. It is customary to call Bern the main city, but this populated one is not the most popular. There are much more visited settlements. For example, the center of international diplomatic organizations and events is concentrated 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. In accordance with the Swiss Constitution, every citizen is guaranteed freedoms, the only exception is the illegal issue of money.

Interesting fact! The share of the state accounts for one thousandth of the total population in the world - this is 7.2 million people.

Historical digression

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.

In different historical periods, Switzerland was inhabited by the Celts, Helvetians. 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 ruled by the Alemanni, Burgundians and Ostrogoths. Then came the era of the Franks, and in the XI 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, which have always sought to independently manage their own territory.

More than seven centuries ago, the inhabitants of the three regions entered into an alliance and swore 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 the national holiday magnificently and cheerfully every year on August 1.

By the beginning of the 16th century, the state consisted of 13 cantons, while each was independent and sovereign. There was no common government, army, capital. In the 17th century, due to a split in the church, a serious crisis ensued, 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 put into effect, which is valid on the territory of 22 cantons. In the same year, the permanent neutrality of the state was recognized at the international level.

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 in the state:

• German - a little less than 64% of the population speaks it;
• French - 20.5% of the population;
• Italian - 6.5% of the population;
• Romansh - 0.5% of the population.

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

Economy

Swiss National Bank

Switzerland is included in the list of the most successful and wealthy countries in the world. The country can be characterized as industrial, with a productive agricultural complex. It is noteworthy that there are no minerals 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 states, primarily the European Union. More than half of all cargo coming from the north of Western Europe to the south passes through Swiss territory.

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

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

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

Politics

Swiss Parliament

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

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

Good to know! Until the 18th century, there were no central authorities in the country; special all-union meetings - tagzatzung - were gathered to resolve national issues.

Cities and resorts

In a small area that Switzerland occupies, a huge number of contrasts are concentrated. Each city has its own landscape, architecture, cultural features and traditions. Many refer to Switzerland as "Pocket-sized 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. Vevey is a resort for those who love the beauty of nature - the peaceful neighborhood of snowy peaks and palm trees is unlikely to leave anyone indifferent. Yverdon-les-Bains is popular for its healing hot springs, beautiful beach.

Undoubtedly, Switzerland is known in the world for its luxurious 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 .

Excellent spas work in Bad Ragaz. It is here that it is pleasant to exchange a comfortable bathrobe for an exquisite cocktail dress. From the resort you can quickly get to Zurich, walk the streets of the old town, go to the numerous boutiques located on Bahnhofstrasse, and complete the tour with a bright point - a rest 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 Lugano.

Zug is a small but very beautiful town and the richest in Switzerland. It is located 23 km from Zurich. Calmness and measuredness reign here, comfortable conditions for a respectable rest are created. In summer you can swim in the purest water of Lake Zug, and in winter you can ride on the mountain slopes. Scenic 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 pastry shops. You will find more details about the city of Zug.

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Attractions

Switzerland is rich in amazing sights - natural, architectural, historical. You will travel to mountain lakes and peaks, through medieval streets. Many of the country's attractions are on 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 can easily and comfortably get to anywhere in the country.

Rhine Falls

It is 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 the locals insisted that the waterfall retained its original appearance. Today it is one of the most visited attractions.

Lake Geneva

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

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

Mount Matterhorn

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

Chillon Castle

A special place in the list of attractions is given to historical monuments of architecture. There are many castles in Switzerland, many of which welcome tourists all year round. Looking at, you seem to be transported to the era of knights, 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, musicians, however, its history hides many dramatic moments that tourists will be told about during the tour.

Interesting fact! Most of the 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 the spa. The main feature is that you can relax here all year round.

Resort Engelberg

35 km from Lucerne is located (Mountain of Angels). On its territory, the current Benedictine abbey has been preserved. There are trails for beginners and experienced athletes, as well as trails for snowboarding.

St. Moritz

One of the oldest ski resorts in the Engadine Valley. The main feature of the resort is the climate - almost all days of the year are sunny (322 days). St. Moritz is located on the shore of the lake and is rightfully considered the most aristocratic - monarchs, show business stars, billionaires and politicians rest 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 a beach holiday doesn’t attract you either, go on a cycling or hiking trip to the Alps with an excursion group. More than 180 hiking trails have been developed for tourists, and about 3.5 km of roads of various difficulty levels have been laid for cyclists.

Other types of recreation

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

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

Good to know! On the shores of Lake Geneva there are baths and baths.

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 of Ticino are Locarno, Ascona and Lugano. .

SPA resorts

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

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

In Switzerland, they offer impeccable quality of medical and cosmetic procedures. Additionally, you can take a course of massage, various peelings and anti-aging procedures. The most visited thermal springs:

• Leukerbad (Burgerbad);
• Bad Ragaz;
• Ovronna;
• Baden;
• Bormio;
• waltz;
• Schintznach;
• 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 have managed to create their own original and unique culture, and traditions are protected and expressed in songs, dances, clothes, embroidery, crafts. Each region has a unique folklore ensemble.

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

Noisy, fun winter celebrations begin in December:

• On the 6th, fascinating processions take place in the streets, and residents of the whole country prepare gingerbread men;
• On the 8th, a feast is held in honor of the Virgin Mary;
• On the 11th, Geneva invites you to the Escalade festival, during which 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 Saint Berthold, who founded the city of Bern. In the second half of the month, St. Moritz hosts true gourmets at a themed celebration, where you can taste 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, where a themed festival takes place in the middle of summer.

Kitchen

- a real find for gourmets. The traditional dishes echo the notes of French, Italian and German cuisines. This combination sounds like a symphony.

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

Each Swiss canton offers unique dishes that are unique to that area and region. On the shores of Lake Geneva, you should definitely try perch, which will be caught and cooked before your eyes. Zug is popular for its amazing cherry pie. In St. Gallen they cook delicious veal sausages. Zurich is famous for its simple but unforgettable potato dish - reshti. 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! A hearty and inexpensive meal is best in a cafe where there is a “menu of the day”. A full meal will cost 15-25 Swiss francs. Lunch at a restaurant costs from 50 francs. As a rule, the amount of the tip 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 square kilometers.

The state neighbors with 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 territory of the state is mountains, where, surrounded by alpine meadows, lakes with the purest water are hidden. A quarter of the area is covered with forests.

Good to know! There are more than 1500 lakes in the country. The highest point is Dufour Peak (4635 m), the lowest is Lake Maggiore (193 m).

Switzerland, located in the Alps, attracts and fascinates with its views. Vacationers are attracted by the feeling of peace and unity with nature that reign 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 east side.

For the state in the Alps, a fairly warm and dry mountain wind is characteristic

Berggasthaus Aescher Hotel

You will be surprised how varied the climatic conditions and landscapes of Switzerland are. Andermatt's calling card is mighty pines and snow. Already after 50 km, tourists find themselves in a region where palm trees bask in the sun. On one side of the mountain, 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;
• travel south in autumn;
• winter is a great time to visit ski resorts concentrated in the alpine part.

Currency

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

Banks work schedule - from 8-00 to 16-00 (except weekends), there is a break - from 12-00 to 14-00. Exchange offices operate in each branch of the bank. 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 developed railway connection between the settlements, so the most convenient and easiest way to travel is by train, they follow a clear schedule, the cars are comfortable, modern, there is a restaurant and play areas. Tickets can be purchased at the box office or ordered on the official website www.sbb.ch.

If you get the chance, take a trip on a tourist train. Flights take place on special routes in the most picturesque parts of the country. The most famous tourist routes:

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

It is quite comfortable to travel by bus. Transportation is handled by Postbus. Tickets can be purchased at the box office or on the official website of the carrier. All bus stations are located near the 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 - involves travel in any form of public transport on a universal ticket. At the same time, the ticket provides impressive discounts on travel in tourist transport. Each city has several modes 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 trips are too expensive. One kilometer costs 2-3 francs, on weekends and at night the fare increases.

Good to know! Many tourists travel by bike. In Geneva and Zurich, they can be rented for free, it is enough to leave any document or a small amount as a deposit.

Car rental

Asphalt pavement in the country is of excellent quality, so traveling by car is a pleasure and no hassle. The only thing that can cause inconvenience is one-way traffic. In addition, there are separate lanes for public transport. It should be noted that repair work on Swiss city roads is a frequent occurrence.

A tourist over 21 years of age who has an international driver's license and a driver's experience of more than three years has the right to rent a car. You also need to 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. Most often, a category C document is issued - this is a short-term visa, which 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 need a tourist visa to visit Switzerland. The maximum permitted period of stay in the country is 90 days in half a year.

Tax free system

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

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

Switzerland (German Switzerland, fr. Suisse, ital. Svizzera, romsh. Svizra), official name - Swiss Confederation (German Schweizerische Eidgenossenschaft, fr. Confédération suisse, ital. Confederazione Svizzera, rumsh. Confederaziun svizra listen)) is a state in Western Europe. It borders in the north with Germany, in the south - with Italy, in the west - with France, in the east - with Austria and Liechtenstein. The name comes from the name of one of the three original cantons of Schwyz. Switzerland is located in the heart of Europe. And although from a geographical point of view, this statement is incorrect, but one way or another, it is through the Alps that the most important railway and highways run, connecting Northern Europe with Southern Europe. The area of ​​Switzerland is 41,285 sq. km. Switzerland has common borders with five countries: in the north with Germany, in the east with Liechtenstein and Austria, in the south with Italy and in the west with France. Switzerland is characterized by a wide variety of landscapes. Jura mountain range, Swiss Plateau ( middle lane) and the Alps are the three main geographic regions of the country. Switzerland is considered to be a well of water. 6% of Europe's fresh water reserves are concentrated here, and it is from here that the Rhine, Rhone, Inn rivers originate, flowing into three large seas: the North, the Mediterranean and the Black. Also in Switzerland there are a large number of lakes. The lakes of the country are of glacial origin, therefore they have an elongated shape and great depths. Among them are the following: Lake Geneva; Lake Constance; Lake Neuchâtel; Lago Maggiore; Lake Zurich.

Climate

The climate of Switzerland is diverse, which is determined by the mountainous landscape. However, the country is dominated by temperate continental, alpine. He is not characterized by extreme manifestations of heat, cold or humidity. In January–February, daytime temperatures fluctuate between -1..-5°C. In summer, in most parts of the country, the air warms up to +25°C.

Time

UTC +1 ( In Minsk 2 hours more in winter and 1 hour more in summer).

Currency unit

Swiss franc (CHF). Banks are open from 8:00 to 16:00 (some until 17:00-18:00) on weekdays, a break from 12:00 to 14:00. You can change money at any bank branch, and in the evening - at the exchange offices of large department stores, airports and some travel agencies. Currency exchange offices at airports and railway stations are open daily from 8:00 to 22:00, sometimes around the clock.

Swiss cuisine

Swiss cuisine enjoys well-deserved recognition among gourmets around the world, and despite the strong influence of its neighbors, it has enough of its own delicacies. A feature of Swiss cuisine is the abundance of cheese and dairy products, as well as meat with a variety of seasonings. Be sure to try the traditional cheese fondue"- cheese melted in boiling white wine" gruyère" or " emmental seasoned with spices. In addition, Switzerland is famous for its chocolate, lake and river fish, raclette, jerky and all kinds of pies. All sorts of sausages and frankfurters came here from German neighbors, which are served here either " in a peasant way» in a roll cut lengthwise, or as a full-fledged dish with a side dish. Worth trying the famous Zurich minced veal with traditional Swiss potatoes " Rosti"Very unusual and tasty thick vegetable soup" Minestrone"Another famous first course is Graubünden Barley Soup, made from smoked beef, cabbage, and, of course, barley. And for dessert, try cherry cake" Zuger Kirstort".

Tourist centers

Switzerland is the country of the best chocolate in the world, synonymous with stability and reliability. This is a country with a completely unique nature. The sights of Switzerland attract a huge number of tourists all year round. We invite you to make a wonderful trip to this country and visit Bern, Zurich, Lucerne, Geneva and other equally interesting places.

Berne (German Bern [ˈbɛrn]) is a real treasure trove of art. Historic city center - a chain of streets Spitalgasse, Marktgasse and Kramgasse resting on the bridge Niederbrücke. The main attractions of the city are concentrated here: the Prison Tower, street fountains, the Clock Tower ( chimes with moving figures), a gothic cathedral with the highest bell tower in Switzerland, and also giving the city its name " bear crypt". At the oldest surviving bridge in Bern - the stone Untertorbrücke, there is " bear pit» - enclosures with cute honey lovers, which attracts crowds of tourists every day. The list of sights in Bern would not be complete without mentioning the Cathedral and the building of the Federal Parliament.

Zurich (German Zürich [ˈtsyːrɪç]; Swiss Zuri) is the largest city in Switzerland, located on the northern shore of Lake Zurich. The city is the world's financial center, the focus of commercial and industrial institutions and the center of the cultural life of the country. Despite this, " Old city» has retained its quarters with narrow winding streets, narrow houses in the Gothic style, in which small cafes, pastry shops and antique shops are located. The main attractions of the old part of the city: Grossmunster Cathedral, wine square, hill Linderhof, St. Peter's Cathedral, famous for the largest tower clock in Europe, church fraumüster. Another popular attraction is the Zurich Opera House, one of Europe's leading opera and ballet theatres.

Lucerne (German Luzern, Alem. Lozarn, fr. Lucerne, Italian Lucerna, romsh. Lucerna listen)) is a major cultural center of the German-speaking part of the country. This is a wonderful small resort with a developed tourist infrastructure, which has the status of a gateway to Central Switzerland. Many legends and stories are associated with Lucerne. The old center has been perfectly preserved in the city. The main attractions of the city include the oldest wooden bridge in Europe, a monument to the Swiss guards, known as " dying lion”, Transport Museum, Natural History Museum, Picasso Museum, Kapellbrücke and Spreierbrücke bridges.

Geneva (fr. Genève [ʒəˈnɛv], Francoprov. Geneva) - the third largest city in Switzerland after Zurich and Basel, is considered one of the most beautiful cities in the world. Perhaps this is also the most peaceful place in all of Europe, where, moreover, there is something to see. The main attraction of the city is the Jet d'Eau fountain, which ejects 500 liters of water per second to a height of 147 meters. Another curious and unique attraction of Geneva is a clock made of flowers on Promenade du Lac with the largest second hand in the world. You should also definitely visit St. Peter's Cathedral, Tavel House, Bourg de Four Square, the Reformation Wall. Do not forget that Geneva is the center of international diplomacy, the second capital of the UN, so it is simply impossible to visit Geneva and not visit the region of international organizations.

What to buy in Switzerland

• chocolate
• textile
• bed sheets
• wooden souvenirs
• ceramics

The Internet often hosts themes "Country through the eyes of a Russian", "Curious facts about the country", etc. I have accumulated a certain amount of material on different countries, I will collect it in a bunch and show you as much as possible. It may be useful to some, but for many it will be just interesting.

So, the first country is Switzerland.

1. In Switzerland, one of the 7 members of the federal council is appointed in turn to the presidency. In 2011, this post is held by a woman, Mechel Calmy Rey (before that, there was also a woman). Theoretically, each minister can be president many times, there were also cases when it was not possible to become president. Appointments take place every year.

2. There are no million-plus cities in Switzerland, not even half a million.

3. Switzerland is home to one of the tallest concrete dams in the world, the Grand Dixence.

4. In Switzerland, the system of elections (or rather referendums) allows for a referendum every Sunday. In practice, this happens less often - several times a year, and without much excitement.

5. One such referendum prohibited the construction of new minarets.

6. In total, there are 6 minarets in the country, but they do not fulfill their main function (gathering for prayer) because of the law on silence. Switzerland bans construction of mosques

7. Coins in denominations from 5 centimes to 5 francs, banknotes - from 10 to 1000 francs. There are 100 centimes (FR) or rapen (German) in the franc, 1 franc is approximately 0.8 euros or 1 US dollar.

8. Switzerland is the only confederation in the world.

9. Switzerland has 4 official languages. The rarest, Romansh, is owned by 0.7% of the country's population.

10. In Switzerland, school starts at the age of 4, 4 days a day (Wednesday-day off).

11. In Switzerland, shops close at 7 pm and are closed on Sundays. Exceptions: Thursday open until 9, and small shops open as they please.

12. Switzerland has no access to either the sea or the ocean, which did not prevent it from once winning the Cup of America ocean regatta.

13. In the past few years, banking secrecy has been shaken. Swiss banks have been pressured to release some customer data to US and German authorities.

14. In Switzerland, alcohol is not sold in shops after 9 pm.

15. In Switzerland, only one city has a metro (Lausanne) and it is ground-based and without a driver.

16. They serve in the Swiss army almost all their lives, regularly going through weekly training sessions (about a year in total). The employer pays the regular salary during the training camp.

17. You can officially get rid of the army if you give 3% of all money earned before the age of 30 to the budget.

18. You can keep weapons after service, and the state encourages this. It is not uncommon to meet people with an overweight machine even in public transport.

19. Only citizens can have weapons and serve in law enforcement agencies.

20. Citizenship can be obtained after 12 years of residence in the country.

21. Switzerland consists of 26 cantons (territorial unit), the canton consists of communes.

22. Accordingly, laws (and taxes) are communal, cantonal and federal levels.

23. Switzerland began with 4 cantons, one of which (Schwyz) gave the country its name. As a result of the accession of various states to the confederation, the number increased to 25 (Geneva was the last to join). And in 1979, one canton split into two as a result of a referendum.

24. Inflation in Switzerland does not exceed 1% per year.

25. In Switzerland, half of the electricity is generated by hydroelectric power plants.

26. Switzerland has the longest tunnel in the world - the Gotthard base tunnel, 57 km. However, commissioning is scheduled for 2017. Among those built there is Saint-Gothard, which ranks 3rd in the world among automobiles - 17 km. Unlike the famous Mont Blanc tunnel (which is also shorter), the Swiss one is free (more precisely, it is included in the annual fee for using the entire autobahn system of the country). In the meantime, there is such a tunnel - Lötschberg. Its length is 34700 meters.

27. In Switzerland, education is free, including for foreigners. Private schools cost from 25 thousand francs a year.

28. Medicine is paid, insurance is mandatory.

29. Geneva airport is located in Switzerland, but there is a road leading to France, bypassing the land border (formally, the border passes at the airport).

30. And in Basel (Mulhouse), on the contrary, there is an airport in France and a road has been laid to Switzerland, which is considered the territory of Switzerland.

31. In the film GoldenEye, James Bond jumps from the 4th highest dam in Switzerland (Verzasca or Contra), where the highest banjo jumping point in the world is located.

32. In Switzerland, there is the highest railway station in Europe - Jungfraujoch.

33. According to the Legatum Prosperity Index, Switzerland has been ranked first in the world in terms of management quality for the last 3 years.

34. Suvorov made his passage through the Alps through the territory of Switzerland.

35. Switzerland has a huge number of headquarters of international organizations, such as the UN, Red Cross, WHO, WTO, CERN, etc. Sports: FIFA, FIBA, IOC, commercial ones are also pulling up: Nestle, Philip-Morris, Novartis, etc. d.

36. As part of the state program, drug addicts are given a dose, food and a place to sleep for free. It is believed that this is cheaper than counteracting wrongdoing on their part.

37. The most famous Swiss athlete is tennis player Roger Federer, the former number one in the world, and even now he is in the top players.

38. Christmas trees In Switzerland, you can throw away only 1 day a year - at the very beginning of January.

39. Small offerings to officials are actually legalized - for any certificate you need to pay at least 25 francs, they do it quickly.

40. To cut down a tree, you need to get permission from the authorities, even if you planted it yourself on your own land.

41. Swiss wine is almost unknown in the world, as everyone drinks it inside the country.

42. Swiss fondue and raclette dishes are very easy to prepare and are prepared literally on the table in the presence of guests.

43. In the Swiss city of Zermatt, petrol and diesel cars are completely banned, only electric cars are allowed.

44. For an address In Switzerland, not houses are numbered, but entrances (front doors). There are no apartment numbers - instead of them there are nameplates.

45. There are no homeless dogs and cats on the streets.

46. At some point in time, every new house had to have a bomb shelter, then the obligation was replaced by the payment of a tax, then this law was completely canceled, but the bomb shelters remained.

47. Apartment buildings usually have an equipped laundry room in the basement. Access to it is strictly on schedule for residents of the house.

48. Any company in Switzerland must have a Swiss director. There is even such a profession as a nominal hired director. Holders of Swiss passports can earn decent money doing nothing, but simply being a director in several companies.

49. In Switzerland, the world's first zero-star hotel opened in an anti-nuclear bunker.

50. Rapidshare's file hosting servers are located in an underground nuclear bunker in Switzerland.

51. The country is so conveniently located that you can go to fill the refrigerator in Germany, dine on marine reptiles in Paris or for a sale in Milan.

52. Owls have a hard time because all institutions and shops close and open early.

53. 4 official languages: German, French, Italian and Romansh. So far I have only seen Romansh on TV, they are given an hour a day for broadcasts. Many Swiss speak two or three foreign languages.

54. At present, a quarter of the country's population consists of foreigners, in the canton of Zurich every third foreigner, and in Geneva already read every second. And in 1940, there were only 5% of those who came in large numbers. In total, 8 million people live permanently in the country.

55. The most numerous nations (thousand people): Italians (287), Germans (263), Portuguese (213), Serbs (122), French (96). Russians 12, Ukrainians 5, Belarusians 1, which in total is comparable to the number of East Asians (18).

56. At the same time, the country is still one of the most difficult in Europe for the average non-European to obtain a residence permit and citizenship. 10 years you need to sit on type B, renewing it every year for 100 CHF, then finally give C (perpetual), and after 12 years you have the right to start the naturalization procedure. There are exceptions, but this is generally the case.

57. Russians here are divided mainly into three groups: “marriage with the country”, self-employed workers and the rich. They don't like each other and don't interact much.

58. “I flew to Zurich and thought: how many foreigners! Then it turned out that they were just speaking Swiss German.” Dialects of German are a challenge for foreigners living in the German part. But if desired, the dialect learns. The method is simple: (1) listen a lot, (2) figure it out from a book with basic principles, (3) try to speak, despite the fact that at first, of course, hearing yourself is very funny.

59. It is important at least to learn to understand the dialect. Yes, the polite Swiss will speak standard German to you, but you need to see the joy on their faces when you tell them that you understand the dialect. According to them, ordinary German is the same as a foreign language for them.

60. But even with a dialect, the way to the heart of a Swiss is not easy to find. Most of them have few friends, and even those from school.

61. Once in one article, Switzerland was called the "ashtray of Europe." There are indeed many smokers here, despite the ban on indoor smoking and the ever-increasing prices of cigarettes. Now a pack costs about 7.5 CHF.

62. The Swiss are lovers of herbs, and she is picky here.

63. The country has an ideal public transport system: you can get to any locality without a car. At the same time, you can calculate your path with an accuracy of up to a minute, and in 95% of cases it will be so. This saves a lot of time. The train must have a toilet and a place / car for bicycles.

64. The transport network in cities is very dense, for example, in the city of Zurich with a population of 400,000 as many as 15 tram routes, 2 new ones have been introduced over the past 4 years.

65. The country has 3 international airports: Zurich, Geneva and Basel/Mühlhausen (24, 13 and 5 million passengers in 2011), as well as 11 regional ones. The passenger flow of the Zurich airport is comparable to the flow to Domodedovo or Sheremetyevo, despite the fact that the population of the whole country is half the population of the Moscow agglomeration. At the airport, among other things, there are many shops (with extended opening hours) and completely regular prices. The journey from the center of Zurich to the airport takes 6 minutes by train. This creates certain inconveniences for people living in the neighborhood: at exactly 6 in the morning, planes begin to buzz over the houses with a frequency of one or two minutes.

66. There is a whole waste disposal system. (1) Rubbish may only be disposed of in special chargeable bags. (2) You can save on this if you sort your garbage: paper, cardboard, garden waste, compost, glass, metal, plastic bottles, batteries, light bulbs... There are different collection containers and collection schedules for everything. You can also give away old clothes and shoes every three months.

67. For almost all services, whether it be a doctor or a repairman, the Internet or a cell phone, payment occurs after the service is rendered and through an invoice sent to your postal address. Some accounts can be switched to automatic mode by linking them to a bank account. Even online purchases can often be paid not with a credit card, but after receiving the goods. Of course, the Swiss post also works like a Swiss watch: the ordered electrical appliance can be sent to you in a day and sometimes even with free shipping. There are difficulties with orders from Europe: the post office charges a decent customs fee.

68. By the age of 30, an ordinary working Swiss without a higher education can afford to take out a mortgage. Another thing is that there is an opinion that having your own house is quite expensive, responsibly, ties you to a certain place and is comparable in terms of expenses to renting the same house, about which you will absolutely not have a headache.

69. It is popular to play sports here and almost every Swiss is semi-professional in some area and is a member of a sports association.

70. There is a private air ambulance, REGA, founded in 1952. 60% of funding comes from voluntary donations. There are almost 11 thousand helicopters in the park.

71. Switzerland is a mountainous country, on the territory there are about 50 four-thousander peaks. Mountains occupy almost 70% of the entire territory. At the same time, wonderful roads have been laid in the mountains and tunnels have been drilled. The longest road tunnel - Gotthard, the third longest in the world, is 17 kilometers. Often there are harsh mountain fogs on one side of it, and the bright Italian sun on the other.

72. Two important concepts in Swiss society are Dankbarkeit (gratitude) and Respekt (respect). The first one is simpler: if you took something that was done for you for granted, then most likely you did not thank you very much. For Russians with a categorical imperative in grammar, it can be difficult to adjust the degree of gratitude at first. Respekt means the fulfillment of certain social norms, which a foreigner, at first, naturally does not know. For example, it's disrespectful if you're visiting and in a hurry to just say goodbye and leave. Saying goodbye should begin at least 15 minutes before the intended departure. It is disrespectful to bring up certain topics in a conversation. It can even be disrespectful to spontaneously put horns on a photograph.

73. The Swiss joke quite caustically, sparing neither relatives nor friends.

74. There is rarely a washing machine in apartments: it is expensive to connect it. Therefore, the washing room is equipped in the basement. If the apartment is cheaper, everyone is washed in a common machine, more expensive - the machine can be individual. There is a plan for laundry, which, depending on the neighbors, has to be signed up a month in advance. Also, sometimes you need to write threatening warnings to those who do not take out their underwear on time and climb out of the plan, it happens that you just throw wet soapy things into the basket.

75. Products in stores are mostly expensive, especially meat, fish and fruits. German Lidl and Aldi represent the lowest price category, followed by Denner, Migros and Coop. Moreover, the price-quality ratio is not required to be fulfilled, you need to know where it is better to buy.

76. It is mandatory for everyone to have health insurance, which costs about 250 CHF per month. A visit to a specialist with an examination on devices and analyzes will cost from 300 to 500 CHF, an appointment is usually a couple of months, if not something critical. The insurance covers almost everything, except for the dentist, a filling will cost 500 CHF.
And for all diseases here are Aspirin, Neocitran and sucking tablets for throat and cough.

77. There are about 10 universities in the country, where studying is quite cheap, per year for a foreigner an average of 2000 CHF for a bachelor's or master's degree. True, they are going to increase the fee for undergraduate studies, believing that Swiss education is indecently cheap. The auditoriums are well equipped: a computer with the Internet and a projector almost everywhere. And of course, many laboratories for science students, huge libraries (mostly free and with free access for everyone).

78. In summer, the most popular pastime here is roasting meat in nature or in the garden. In almost every forest you can find a specially equipped place for fires and tables. A cloud of all kinds of discounts on marinated meat is offered. In winter, everyone goes to the mountains, respectively, to ski, board or sled. In the last couple of years, winters have been abnormally warm, snow on the two-thousanders falls poorly.

79. Most of the days off in the year are church holidays.

80. The motto of Switzerland is very musketeer: “One for all, and all for one!”.

81. The country is known for its notorious neutrality, which is not at all explained by love for the world, but by the fact that for this small country, bordering on such military-active countries as France, Germany, Italy and Austria, there was simply no other way out. Neutrality consists in non-intervention in any armed conflicts. Neutrality does not leave Switzerland a chance to win Eurovision.

82. At the same time, Switzerland has an army that functions according to the principle “Switzerland has no army, Switzerland is an army!”. Every male Swiss is obliged to repay a debt: military service, alternative service or money. At the same time, if you leave to serve, the work will be kept for you, and as a reward they will also give you a personal machine gun home.

83. There are almost no minerals in the country, the villagers raise livestock, plant grain, potatoes, carrots and corn, grow fruits in some places and make wine. In stores, everything grown, harvested and slaughtered in Switzerland stands out and costs more.

84. Despite the popular belief that Switzerland lives off its banks, this is not the case: the percentage of high-tech products in GDP is at the level of Germany and higher than that of Japan. However, 70% of the population is employed in the service sector: trade, healthcare, education, finance and insurance.

85. There is little tasty and healthy food in traditional Swiss cuisine: they eat mostly cheese dishes, various sausages and potatoes. The ones that everyone hears are Fondue (melted cheese in a pot mixed with wine, bread is dipped in it), Raklett (melted cheese on a spatula with jacket potatoes, pickles and fried pieces of meat), Rösti (a type of fried potato), Älplermagronen (fried mixture of pasta, potatoes, cheese, cream and onions with various additives), Sausisson (healthy sausage with lots of fatty meat inside, served with red cabbage with chestnuts). They also like to eat asparagus.

86. Elections and other voting take place by mail: an envelope with ballots and information is sent, it must be filled out and sent back before the appointed time. At the same time, political agitation can be very cruel: when they voted for some law on the entry of foreigners, Switzerland was portrayed as trampled down by the black feet of those who came in large numbers.

87. There are many bureaucratic institutions, you need to know where to get which certificate. It helps that they work quite quickly and smoothly, for example, changing a residence permit takes a maximum of a couple of hours: sign the form with the secretary at work and call in the Kreisbüro district office to give the form and pay the fee. A new permit will be sent by registered mail within two weeks.

88. Cities organically coexist with nature: 10 minutes from the center there can be a pasture with cows, rivers are full of bread-hungry ducks, a fat swan walks on the bridge in the center on Sunday morning, and herons fly over the houses. Perhaps the most unpleasant animal here is the forest cockroach, it looks exactly like an ordinary red cockroach, but it is not afraid of the light and flies with might and main.

89. A popular tradition is a carnival procession, in different cities at different times. Everyone makes masks and costumes for themselves and passes through the center, dancing, scaring the kids and playing musical instruments.

90. When you first come to Switzerland from Russia, it seems that everything is so small, small.

91. Dadaism was founded in the Cabaret Voltaire in Zurich, which is why the picture gallery flaunts one of the most amazing paintings by Max Ernst. Also, the artist Giger, who came up with the screen image of Aliens, is Swiss, and there is his museum in Gruyère.

92. The Swiss are masters of building cable cars and high mountain trains. A gear train traveling at an incline of 48 degrees to a height of 2000 meters is located on Mount Pilatus in the canton of Obwalden.

93. The country actively supports scientific research in the fields of nanotechnology, informatics, space and climate. Also recently, the Higgs boson may have been discovered at the Large Hadron Collider. It is not difficult to get a postgraduate position with a good Russian education and decent English. Here, they still believe that the Russians are very smart and strong in technical disciplines.

94. In general, the level of understanding of mathematical disciplines by students is not high. At the exams in mathematics and statistics (the subject was taken voluntarily) in the magistracy, they write such things that a first-year bachelor in Russia will be ashamed. The reason, it seems to me, is that students choose their own curriculum and many important areas remain very chaotically mastered. The best knowledge is shown, as a rule, by the Chinese.

95. It is customary for people to help each other. Someone will definitely help to bring and take out the stroller on the bus (it’s not a shame to ask about it directly), load heavy suitcases, hang the bike on a hook on the ceiling in the train. There are many low-floor buses and trams for the disabled, and if anything happens, the driver will come out and help.

96. The Swiss Post is also a financial institution. There you can open an account on more favorable terms than in commercial banks, however, all the nishtyaks operate mainly within the country. You can also pay with their card on Swiss websites.

97. Here they calmly treat non-traditional orientation. There is a gay and a lesbian in the city council of the city of Zurich. Every year in August, the Love Parade takes place. It's perfectly normal to see an uncle in the city center in a red suit, green platform sandals and a bright manicure. Not that there are many of them, it's just that everyone doesn't care.

98. Kindergartens for children, according to rumors, are very expensive, so often women after 30 get married, give birth to several children in a row and sit with them. At the same time, there are no problems moving with children, there are changing tables and children's rooms everywhere.

99. Prostitution and torrenting are legal. On TV, after 12, they only play advertisements for all kinds of establishments. The state is worried in every possible way about the conditions of street labor of priestesses of love.

100. Switzerland is recognized as the most mountainous country in Europe. Mountains occupy 2/3 of the entire territory of this country

101. The best and most expensive watches in the world are made in Switzerland. Of course, brands are on everyone's lips - Rolex, Chopard, Breguet, Patek Philippe, Vacheron Constantin, Tissot, Swatch, etc. By the way, the first wrist watch was invented by the dude Patek Philippe in 1868.

102. Switzerland makes the best chocolate in the world. The first chocolate bar was produced in 1819

103. The Swiss Army Knife is also the most famous penknife in the world. By the way, it is made red in order to make it easier to find it in the snow or grass if you drop it.

104. Yodel (such lousy singing without words) has long been used by Swiss shepherds as a means of communication

105. Wherever you are in Switzerland, there will be a swimming pool within 13 miles of you

106. Switzerland is in second place in Europe in terms of life expectancy (on the first - Sweden)

107. The most famous Swiss dish in the world is fondue. Initially, fondue was the food of the peasants, who thus ate the remnants of bread and cheese.

108. Switzerland is located in the center of Europe, but is not part of the European Union

109. The world-famous company Davidoff was founded in Switzerland by an emigrant from Kyiv

110. Switzerland is one of the richest countries in the world. It is also the largest financial center

111. 15% of the country's income comes from tourism

112. The Swiss Guard must be at least 174 cm tall and must not wear a mustache, beard or long hair. And during the service, he can not marry. Exceptions are rarely made and only if the bride of the Guardsman is a staunch Catholic

113 . Switzerland is a paradise for mushroom pickers. White mushrooms, of which there are a great many, no one collects and does not eat)

114 . The Swiss are the most inventive nation in the world. There are 2,286 patents per million inhabitants of Switzerland. The closest competitors are the Dutch (1427 patents per million population), South Koreans (1139) and Japanese (1118). It is believed that increased ingenuity is associated with the lack of minerals and access to the sea in Switzerland, which does not allow the development of either serious industry or trade. You have to lean on ingenuity.

Who else knows something interesting about Switzerland? And who can correct something in these facts?

shopping

In the minds of a huge number of people, Switzerland is associated with cheese and watches. And, of course, people come here to make sure that the Swiss cheese is the most delicious, and the clock is the most accurate. It is hardly an exaggeration to say that this is so.

A tourist can try Swiss cheeses and dishes based on them in any corner of the country. But many people go to Geneva specifically to buy watches and jewelry. By the way, you can buy original products here on any main street.

The spring months in Switzerland are especially attractive for those who love to shop for designer items. The fact is that it is at this time that many manufacturers make discounts (up to 70%!) On their goods - from clothes to souvenirs. You can buy things from famous designers in Ticino, in the south of the country.

Among the largest shopping centers are Shop Ville (Zurich) and Fox Town Faktory (Mendrisio). The latter is the largest shopping complex in Europe.

Great pleasure will give you shopping in Bern. In shopping boulevards up to 6 kilometers long, you can find everything from souvenirs to cakes.

As for the schedule of the shops, you will have to get used to it. First, on Sunday, most institutions do not work. On Saturday, the working day lasts, as a rule, until 16:00. Stores usually close on Wednesdays, especially in rural areas, but on Thursdays they are open longer, until about 21:00. The Swiss are quite strict with lunch: from 12:00 to 14:00, most institutions do not work.

Out of competition - gas stations: open every day from 08:00 to 22:00. True, food and drinks are more expensive here.

Transport

The largest international airports in Switzerland are located in Zurich, Basel and Geneva. They are operated by the Swiss company.

In general, transport links in Switzerland are one of the densest. Trains leave approximately every half an hour. Major cities have a very dense network of buses and trams. Most of the subway lines in Switzerland resemble our tram lines: they run above ground. Only in 2008, the first underground metro was opened in Lausanne.

Intercity transportation is also well established. Even remote settlements regularly want buses. You can get to any place in the city and country quickly, easily and on the transport that you prefer.

Ferries run on the numerous lakes of Switzerland exactly on schedule. There are cable cars in the mountains: not only very convenient, but also exciting!

In general, transport in this country works - pardon the pun - like a Swiss watch.

As for the roads, traveling in your own car can also be a lot of fun. At least because of the landscapes that stretch around. In addition, you can not complain about the quality of coverage and infrastructure. An important role is played by roads that pass through mountain passes.

An important point: to travel by car on some highways, your car must be equipped with a special ticket. It can be bought at the entrance to Switzerland, at customs. It costs around $30. Permissible speed on highways - 120 km/h, up to 80 km/h - outside settlements, up to 50 km/h - in settlements. There are video cameras on all roads that help catch violators, so be careful. By the way, for speeding in Switzerland can judge. You can even pay a fine for exceeding the speed limit by 5 km/h.

Helpful Hint: Don't drive with sunglasses on. The fact is that there are a lot of tunnels on the roads of Switzerland. Entering the tunnel on a sunny day, you will find yourself in total darkness, which is unsafe for you and, possibly, for a vehicle moving towards you.

Connection

Communications in Switzerland, you guessed it, also work smoothly. Moreover, modern public telephones offer very unusual opportunities for many tourists. So, they have a touch screen, through which you can not only make a call, send an email or look through the telephone directory, but also order train tickets.

As for mobile communications, the GSM standard is used here.

Internet access can be found everywhere: in public access areas or in a virtual cafe - for free or for a couple of francs.

Post offices are open on weekdays (Monday-Friday) from 07:30 to 18:30 (lunch - from 12:00 to 13:30). In the lobby of most hotels there are one or two computers connected to the Internet that you can use.

Safety

Tourists who intend to spend a vacation in Switzerland with accommodation or a hotel need a tourist visa. To obtain it, you need to submit the following documents: a foreign passport and a copy of its first page, a completed application form with a signature and a photo, an original and a copy of a round-trip ticket, confirmation of prepaid housing, confirmation of the availability of funds. In some cases, the Embassy may require other documents.

Switzerland is considered a safe country, and yet experts recommend getting insurance, which can save you from paying impressive amounts for emergency medical care (you never know). And if your property is stolen, insurance will help repair the damage.

In general, the crime rate in Switzerland is very low. However, you should still beware of pickpockets, especially at the height of the season or during exhibitions and conferences. Particular caution is advised at train stations and during night train journeys.

In case of theft, immediately contact the police station for a report. It is better to always have your passport with you if you want to avoid problems with the police. By the way, the representatives of the law here do not differ in angelic character.

The level of road safety in this country is also very high. However, winding mountain roads can pose an increased risk, especially during the summer and winter holidays, when congestion increases.

Business

Switzerland is the richest country in the world. In addition, it is one of the most important financial centers in the world: a huge number of branches of foreign banks operate here. The secret of the reliability of Swiss banks is simple: they are located in a country with a stable economic and legal system, and therefore cannot go bankrupt.

It seems completely logical that a country with such a status annually hosts international conferences and exhibitions, which attract tens, hundreds of thousands of people from different parts of the world. So, the most popular of the exhibitions are: FESPO ZURICH (“Recreation, travel, sports”), SICHERHEIT (“International Safety Fair”), IGEHO (“International exhibition of the supply industry, hotel and restaurant business”), Internationaler Automobil-Salon Genf ( "International Automobile Salon"), Blickfang Basel ("Furniture Design, Jewelry and Fashion Exhibition") and many others. Conferences on political, financial, banking, industrial and cultural issues are regularly held here.

Real estate

Switzerland has long been considered one of the most closed countries for property buyers from abroad. It is impossible to buy real estate here if you do not have a category B residence permit (and this is a permanent visa extension for 10 years). Moreover, the buyer is still obliged to comply with the rules of the "game" of the state: the acquired property cannot be used for commercial purposes. A foreigner is allowed to use housing only for his own needs, and with a restriction on residence time - 6 months a year. You can live permanently in this house only by obtaining a residence permit in this country. There is also an area limitation.

Houses and apartments in Switzerland are very expensive, and the country's real estate market has demonstrated its resilience even during the crisis. Experts even noted a slight increase in prices for a number of objects.

The cost of housing in Switzerland depends on many factors. One of the most important is location. So, a small apartment in Villars, in a residential complex, can be purchased for some 60 thousand euros. Apartments in more expensive resorts can cost from 150 thousand to 800 thousand euros (depending on the area and the view from the window). Those who have more serious means and are looking for solitude in the bosom of nature and a huge personal space, of course, choose luxury villas and chalets. Such housing will cost about 5-8 million euros.

Contrary to popular belief, a trip to Switzerland is no more expensive than a trip to Germany or Italy. It's just that the Swiss understand very well that "good money" equals "good service". In this country, a tourist always gets what he paid for.

If you want to spend as little as possible, then the best option is to live in a camp site, cook for yourself, travel short distances and only by bike. With such a rest, you can spend about $ 30 per day. You will not spend much more if you eat at fast food restaurants or student canteens at universities: lunches are relatively inexpensive there (7-9 $).

Comfortable conditions within reason - a three-star hotel or inn - "pull" about $ 100 per day. Lunch at a restaurant can significantly lighten your wallet. By the way, tips there (+15%) are included in the bill. The same goes for the cost of taxi services.

A visit to a museum or an acquaintance with some attraction will cost about $ 4. About the same amount you will spend on moving around the city by public transport.

Visa information

Citizens of the CIS and the Russian Federation to travel to the territory of Switzerland, which is part of the Schengen countries, need a visa. A short-term Schengen visa (category C) can be tourist (when booking a hotel or tour around the country), guest (when visiting relatives or friends), business (if necessary, meetings with business partners) and transit (when traveling in transit to those countries that are not members of the Schengen area).

In addition, the Swiss embassy issues study visas for people who are going to study for more than 90 days, and work visas for people who are employed.

The Swiss Embassy in Moscow is located at: per. Ogorodnaya Sloboda, 2/5. You can also contact the Consulate General in St. Petersburg (Chernyshevsky Ave., 17) or the Visa Department of the Embassy (Moscow, Prechistenskaya Embankment, 31).

Story

The history of Switzerland dates back to the 12th millennium BC. It was then that the territory covered with eternal snows, under the onslaught of global warming, began to free itself from ice. Gradually, the white cover changed into green, and the "revived" earth found its first inhabitants from the human race.

In ancient times, Switzerland was inhabited by the Celtic tribes of the Helvetii, hence its ancient name - Helvetia. Around the 1st century BC, after the campaigns of Julius Caesar, the country was conquered by the Romans and gained worldwide fame. In the 5th century AD, during the era of the Great Migration of Peoples, it was captured by the Alemanni, Burgundians and Ostrogoths; in the VI century - the Franks. In the 11th century, Switzerland became part of the Holy Roman Empire of the German Nation.

Initially, the Swiss were not a single nation, while Switzerland itself was a union of communities (cantons) that aspired to self-government. At the beginning of August 1291, the peasants of the forested cantons of Schwyz, Uri and Unterwalden, who lived on the shores of Lake Firwaldstet, entered into an alliance and swore an oath to help each other in the struggle against the rule of the Habsburg dynasty; in a stubborn struggle they defended their independence. The Swiss celebrate this joyful event to this day: August 1 - the National Day of Switzerland - salutes and fireworks illuminate the Swiss sky in memory of the events of more than seven centuries ago.

For two centuries, Swiss troops have been victorious over the feudal armies of dukes, kings and kaisers. Provinces and cities began to join the original union. The united allies sought to expel the Habsburgs, gradually expanding their borders. In 1499, after the victory over Kaiser Maximilian I of Habsburg, Switzerland freed itself from the domination of the empire. In 1513, there were already 13 cantons in the union. Each canton was absolutely sovereign - there was no common army, no common constitution, no capital, no central government. In the 16th century, a severe crisis began in Switzerland. The reason for this was a split in the Christian church. Geneva and Zurich became centers of activity for the Protestant reformers Calvin and Zwingli. In 1529, a religious war broke out in Switzerland. Only a serious danger emanating from outside prevented the complete disintegration of the state. In 1798, the French invaded Switzerland and transformed it into a unitary Helvetic Republic. For fifteen years the country was under their rule. The situation changed only in 1815, when the Swiss introduced their own constitution with equal rights for 22 sovereign cantons. In the same year, the Peace Congress of Vienna recognized the "permanent neutrality" of Switzerland and determined its borders, which are still inviolable. However, the unity of the union of cantons was not reliably ensured by the organization of a sufficiently strong central authority. Only under the constitution of 1948, the fragile union turned into a single state - federal Switzerland.

National Features

Switzerland is a highly developed country with intensive agriculture. It is the largest exporter of capital, the financial center of the capitalist world. Swiss banks are the most reliable. Perhaps this is due to the fact that the country has never joined any blocs. It has been and remains a stable country in Europe.

In Switzerland, four languages ​​are spoken and written: German (various local dialects of Swiss German and literary High German are spoken by 65% ​​of the population), French (18%), Italian (mainly one of the Lombard dialects, 12%), and in Romansh (in five different dialects). Having the opportunity to learn all the languages ​​​​of the country at school, every Swiss, as a rule, understands them, although he is not always able to express himself in all.

The Swiss are very religious: according to the 1980 census, about 50% profess the Protestant faith, 44% - Catholic, 6% adhere to other religions or atheism. Traveling in Switzerland, one cannot fail to notice the world-famous virtue of the Swiss - the love of cleanliness and order. They vacuum the streets! James Joyce once remarked that soup here can be eaten without plates, straight from the pavement. In Switzerland, it is impossible to pass by Swiss watches, which have become the epitome of precision, elegance, a kind of world standard. For this small country, watches have become the most prestigious and significant export.

culture

In Eastern Switzerland is the Rhine Falls (average water flow - 1100 cubic meters per second). Near the waterfall is the city of Schaffhausen. This part of the country is replete with colorful flower carpets: alpine rose (rhododendron), edelweiss, saxifrage, breakwort. Most of the plants are perennial herbs and shrubs. Their flowers are relatively large and bright; both the flowers and the plants themselves are often fragrant. Small towns and villages with an unobtrusive charm fit perfectly into such a natural landscape. In Central Switzerland, you can admire Mount Pilatus - a favorite vacation spot for both residents of the country and foreign tourists.

Switzerland is an amazing country. In a small space, both the beauties of nature and the outstanding creations of human hands are concentrated in it. At every step - traces of different civilizations. The ruins in Nyon and Avenches remind of the Romans, in particular the amphitheater for 10,000 visitors. In Basel, Geneva and Lausanne, a variety of Romanesque and Gothic architectural monuments attract attention. The fortress Castello di Montebello (Castello di Montebello) of the Renaissance has been preserved - one of the places of pilgrimage for tourists. The baroque is richly represented, mainly the monasteries of Einsiedeln (Einsiedeln), Engelberg (Engelberg) and the churches of Kreuzlingen (Kreuzlingen) and Arlesheim (Arlesheim).

The architectural appearance of the city of Schaffhausen is dominated by Baroque and Rococo, and the oldest surviving buildings date back to the late Gothic period. Along a stone-paved path you can climb to the ancient fortress of Munot. The center of Eastern Switzerland is the city of St. Gallen, which, according to legend, owed its birth to the Irish monk Gallus. During the construction of the skete, Gallus was helped by a bear; his image can be seen today on the city coat of arms. The famous cathedral in St. Gallen and the monastery library are considered the main monuments of the Baroque style in Switzerland.

The cultural life of the country is diverse and rich. Every big city has its own theater and symphony orchestra. Of the musical theaters, the most famous are the Opera House in Zurich, the Grand Theater in Geneva and the Basel City Theater. Summer in Switzerland is the time of festivals, they take place in Lausanne, Zurich, Montreux and many other cities. In addition to world-famous international music festivals, Lucerne annually hosts a carnival. The holiday always begins on Thursday and lasts until the first Wednesday of Great Lent.

Swiss cuisine

Swiss cuisine enjoys well-deserved recognition among gourmets all over the world, and the Swiss themselves do not shy away from luculla delights at home. So, the favorite pastime of the inhabitants of Zurich is a walk through restaurants and cafes, and if they praise you any of the eateries, you can safely go there. The local cuisine has been strongly influenced by its neighbors, primarily the "older French cousin" and Italian cuisine, as well as a purely Swabian table, but still it has enough of its own delicacies that have become widespread in other countries. A quintessentially Swiss dish, the famous fondue is best enjoyed when it's cold outside and it's raining or snowing. Then sit comfortably in front of the fireplace and, after chopping pieces of bread crumb on a long fork, dip them in melted cheese. It is best to drink this delicacy with white wine or tea.

Another well-known cheese dish that has become widespread is the Vallis raclette. The very name of the dish ("raclette" (fr.) - a coarse grater) gives out the principle of its preparation. The cheese is rubbed on a coarse grater or broken into small pieces, heated and served with potatoes. However, in order to enjoy the taste and aroma of cheese, it is not at all necessary to warm it up. The best examples are the Emmental (more often called Swiss) and Appenzell cheeses, which enjoy well-deserved recognition among gourmets, as well as Greyerz cheese. Exquisite taste and aroma distinguish "Vasheren" - which is prepared only in winter, and "Schabziger" - cheese with herbs from Glernerland.

Among the Ticinese delicacies, first of all, it is necessary to name small soft formagini cheeses, which are cooked from cottage cheese, as well as various varieties of mountain cheese, the most famous of which is Piora. Another famous Swiss delicacy is the Zurich schnitzel (veal in a creamy sauce). Those who like to eat hearty prefer the Bernese appetizer (Berner Platte) - a dish of sauerkraut with beans and fried potatoes. Bern is also considered the birthplace of the famous Rosti - thinly sliced ​​fried potatoes with cracklings.

And now it's time to think about soups, for example, Basel flour broth, barley soup from Bünden or Busekka - Ticinese tripe soup. The national dish of sunny southern Switzerland is, of course, polenta, a dish of corn grits with cream and pieces of fruit. To the south of St. Gotthard, risotto is very popular - a rice dish prepared in Milanese (with saffron), mushrooms or peasant style (with vegetables).

The menu of Swiss cuisine also includes fish dishes: rudd, trout, pike and egli (freshwater perch), which are prepared differently everywhere. In late autumn and winter, many restaurants offer game delicacies such as roe deer back. And another delicacy, famous on both sides of the Swiss border, deserves your attention. This is Bunden-style meat, beef jerky, cut into very thin slices. Those who first tasted it in Valais, and not in Graubünden, call this dish “Welsh meat”.

The Alpine Republic is famous for its wines. Widely known are white wines - Dezaley and St.-Saphorin, Fendant and Johannisberg, Twanner. The best varieties of red wines are the exquisitely thin "Rose der CEil-de-Perdrix", the strong "Dole", "Pinot Noir" and "Merlot". But, perhaps, the best Bünden wines are made in the Italian town of Veltalin, which since 1815 has become the Swiss canton of Graubünden. "Sassella", "Grumello", "Inferno" - these are the names of strong ruby-red wines, which owe their luxurious bouquet to the generous southern sun. It remains only to say a few words about all kinds of sweets served for dessert, afternoon tea, and evening coffee. These are fruit pies, and Zug cherry cake, and carrot cake, and Engadine walnut cake, and of course, the famous Swiss chocolate.

Economy

Switzerland is one of the most developed and wealthy countries in the world. Switzerland is a highly developed industrial country with intensive, highly productive agriculture and an almost complete absence of any minerals. According to Western economists, it is among the top ten countries in the world in terms of economic competitiveness. The Swiss economy is closely connected with the outside world, primarily with the EU countries, with thousands of threads of industrial cooperation and foreign trade transactions. OK. 80-85% of Swiss trade is with EU countries. More than 50% of all cargoes from the northern part of Western Europe to the south and in the opposite direction pass through Switzerland in transit. After a noticeable increase in 1998-2000. The country's economy has entered a recession. In 2002, GDP grew by 0.5% to CHF 417 billion. fr. Inflation was at around 0.6%. The unemployment rate reached 3.3%. The economy employs approx. 4 million people (57% of the population), of which: in industry - 25.8%, including in mechanical engineering - 2.7%, in the chemical industry - 1.7%, in agriculture and forestry - 4.1% , in the service sector - 70.1%, including in trade - 16.4%, in banking and insurance - 5.5%, in the hotel and restaurant business - 6.0%. The policy of neutrality made it possible to avoid the devastation of two world wars.

Politics

Switzerland is a federal republic. The current constitution was adopted in 1999. The federal authorities are in charge of issues of war and peace, foreign relations, the army, railways, communications, money emission, approval of the federal budget, etc.

The head of the country is the president, who is elected every year on a rotating basis from among the members of the Federal Council.

The highest legislative body is a bicameral parliament - the Federal Assembly, consisting of the National Council and the Council of Cantons (Equal Chambers).

The National Council (200 deputies) is elected by the population for 4 years under the proportional representation system.

The federal structure and the constitution of Switzerland were enshrined in the constitutions of 1848, 1874 and 1999.

Now Switzerland is a federation of 26 cantons (20 cantons and 6 half-cantons). Until 1848 (except for a short period of the Helvetic Republic) Switzerland was a confederation). Each canton has its own constitution, laws, but their rights are limited by the federal constitution. Legislative power belongs to Parliament, and executive power belongs to the Federal Council (government).

There are 46 deputies in the Council of Cantons, who are elected by the population according to the majority system of relative majority in 20 two-mandate constituencies and 6 single-member constituencies, that is, 2 people each. from each canton and one from the half-canton for 4 years (in some cantons - for 3 years).

All laws adopted by Parliament can be approved or rejected in a popular (optional) referendum. To do this, after the adoption of the law, 50 thousand signatures must be collected within 100 days.

The right to vote is granted to all citizens who have reached the age of 18.

The highest executive power belongs to the government - the Federal Council, consisting of 7 members, each of which heads one of the departments (ministries). Members of the Federal Council are elected at a joint meeting of both houses of parliament. All members of the Federal Council alternately serve as president and vice president.

The foundations of the Swiss state were laid in 1291. Until the end of the 18th century, there were no central state bodies in the country, but all-union councils - tagsatzung - were periodically convened.

What associations first of all arise in a person who hears the word "Switzerland"? Watches, cheese, chocolate, penknives, banks, mountains, alpine meadows... and, perhaps, that's all. But this country is very curious and unusual. In this article, we will look at some interesting facts about Switzerland.

A little about the country

Switzerland is a very unique state, small even by European standards, which, however, contains a lot of interesting and unusual things. According to the inhabitants of this country, its main asset is nature: eternal glaciers, mountain ranges, alpine meadows, blue lakes and waterfalls. Here, in a relatively small area, there are 1484 lakes. Many of them are of glacial origin - these are reservoirs of unique beauty and transparency. This can be judged even by the photos given in the article. Switzerland is unusual in that no matter where you are in the country, a beautiful lake suitable for swimming will be located a maximum of twenty kilometers from you. Mountains occupy two thirds of its territory. In this regard, the state we are considering is recognized as the most mountainous in Europe. Approximately 14 percent of the country's area is occupied by nature reserves and parks, in which pristine nature has been preserved.

Political order

Even considering the political structure of this country, one can find interesting facts about Switzerland. It turns out that it is the only confederate state in the world. This has been going on for a long time. In the Middle Ages, it actually had a confederate structure. Modern Switzerland is actually a federal republic. Interesting is the fact that this country officially does not have a capital. However, this function is performed by the city of Bern. In Switzerland, the president is elected for a one-year term. And, what is most interesting, he is appointed in turn, from seven members of the federal council.

Socio-political situation

This country has four official languages: French, German, Italian and The rarest language in Switzerland is Romansh, which is spoken by less than one percent of the country's population. Despite the fact that this state is located in and has not joined the European Union, there are a huge number of offices and headquarters of various international organizations, including the Red Cross, the UN, WHO, WTO, FIFA, FIBA, CERN, IOC and others.

Referenda in Switzerland

Another interesting fact is that the country's legislation is allowed to hold a referendum every Sunday. However, in practice they are carried out only a few times a year. According to the results of one such referendum, the construction of new minarets was prohibited in the state. There are only six such architectural structures in Switzerland. However, they cannot perform their main function (announcement of the prayer fee), as this will lead to a violation

Consider some interesting information about this country.

1. Switzerland is located in the middle part of Western Europe and has no access to the sea, but it has a very large fleet. The Main Navigation Company of Lake Geneva is the owner of the largest number of ships in Europe's inland waters.

2. Service in the army is compulsory for all men of the country under the age of thirty. Its duration is 260 days, but they are distributed over ten years. According to the legislation, one can "slope" from the service, for this one will have to transfer three percent of all one's income to the state fund for 30 years.

3. In Switzerland, before the advent of mobile phones, singing without words - yodeling - was used as a means of communication.

4. In Geneva, on the waterfront, there is the largest flower clock on the planet. Their dial has a diameter of five meters, it consists of 6.5 thousand fresh flowers.

5. In order to cut down a tree in Switzerland, you must obtain a special permit, even if the plant grows on your own plot of land.

6. White mushrooms grow in abundance in this country, but no one collects or eats them.

There's a lot to learn here

Collecting interesting facts about Switzerland, one can note its achievements.

1. In this state, the highest concrete dam in the world (285 meters), the longest tunnel on the planet (57 kilometers) and the highest cable car on the continent (3820 meters) were built.

2. Despite being two-thirds mountainous, Switzerland is known for its milk and cheese exports. It is originally a peasant state, but it produces the best watch movements in the world. One hundred and fifty years ago, Switzerland was one of the poorest countries in Europe, and today it is the realm of world banking corporations.

3. The citizens of this country are considered the most inventive in the world. After all, there are 2286 patents per million inhabitants of Switzerland. The closest competitors are the Dutch - 1427 patents; South Koreans - 1139 patents; and the Japanese - 1118 patents.

4. The average wage here is 5,000 francs ($3,900) and the minimum wage is 3,500 francs ($2,700). Inflation in this country does not exceed one percent per year.

5. Medicine in Switzerland is very modern and very high quality, but paid, it includes compulsory insurance. According to the citizens of this country who have visited the level of medical care is at the level of the Stone Age compared to the "homeland of cheese".

Switzerland: interesting facts for children

Children in Switzerland start school at the age of four, but study only four days a week. An interesting fact is free higher education not only for citizens of the country, but also for foreigners. Swiss private schools are considered the best in the world. Education here costs from 25 thousand per year (800 thousand rubles).

A little about lakes

1. Lake Leman (Geneva) is the second largest in Europe.

2. Lucerne, or Vierwaldstettersee. This lake, without a doubt, is the most picturesque in the country. It is surrounded by mountain peaks covered with a white veil, and magnificent emerald forests stretch along its banks.

3. Lake Lugansk is located in the south of the country, on the border with Italy.

4. Maggiore-Locarno. This lake is characterized by a mild Mediterranean climate, as well as lush vegetation and an Italian landscape.

5. Murten is a small calm pond of the correct oval shape. It is a favorite vacation spot for residents of the surrounding towns.

6. Lakes Brienz and Thun. These reservoirs, fascinating with their beauty, are located in the very center of Switzerland, in the foothills of the Alps. There are all conditions for practicing active sports: skiing, windsurfing, sailing. On Lake Brienz there is a stunning waterfall Giessbach, it falls from the glaciers directly into the reservoir.

7. Neuchâtel reservoir. This beautiful mountain lake, framed by the low peaks of the Jura, is located in the western part of the country, in the Valley of the Clock, near the French border.

8. Zurich reservoir. This is not the largest lake, but Switzerland itself is located on its shore, which is the financial and economic capital of the country.

This amazing Switzerland

1. Mountains. The geographical map of Switzerland shows 48 peaks that rise to a height of 4000 meters - the most among all the Alpine countries. Many different records are associated with these monumental natural structures. For example, here is the highest railway station in Europe - Jungfraujoch (3454 meters); the steepest funiculars, mountain trains and, of course, the longest glacier in Europe - Aletch (23 kilometers).

2. The slowest train on Earth. The panoramic Glacier Express travels 291 kilometers in eight hours. Its average speed is 42 kilometers per hour. Despite this, passengers hardly have time to capture all the beauty of this marvelous country. On its way, the express train rises to a height of 2033 meters, overcomes 91 tunnels and 291 bridges.

3. Sparkling holiday. Zurich hosts the largest indoor Christmas market in Europe every year. A Christmas tree is installed here, which is decorated with more than seven thousand Swarovski crystals. In the market you can buy original gifts, handmade souvenirs, as well as delicious treats.

4. No smog. Switzerland has twelve ski resorts. They are strictly prohibited from vehicular traffic. Here, even city services use electric vehicles.

5. Hotter. Switzerland has the highest and largest thermal spa resort - Leukerbad. More than 3.9 million liters of water are pumped into thirty local pools every day, the temperature of which is 51 degrees Celsius.