Switzerland is the world's only country where there are four national languages. These include French, Rumantsch, German and Italian. This isn't the only thing that makes this beautiful country unique. Can I challenge you to name something Switzerland is famous for, before you look at our list?
So What is Switzerland Famous For?
Find below a list of 13 different things that Switzerland is famous for.
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The Alps
Is it any surprise that Switzerland's famous mountain range is the Swiss Alps? Many tourists flock to Switzerland each year just to enjoy the Alps. It's hard to miss them as they make up about 65% of Switzerland. They are one of the world's most beautiful mountain ranges. The Alps are great for skiing and winter sports. Famous alps include the Eiger, the Matterhorn and the Jungfrau.
The Red Cross
In times of crisis, the Red Cross has been known to help individuals when others couldn't. It was first established back in 1863 due in part to a book called A Memoire of Solferino that was written by the Swiss entrepreneur, Henry Dunant. Today the Red Cross has become well known not only in Switzerland, but throughout the world.
Watches
You'd be hardpressed to find a watch that is as well made as they are in Switzerland. The watchmaking industry in this country produces watches that are not only technologically advanced, but aesthetically appealing as well. They have a wide range and are very accurate at telling time. Some of the more popular watch brands from Switzerland include Rolex, Omega, Tag Heuer and Rado.
Dadaism
The art movement, Dadaism, started in the 20th century in Zurich. It was a way for artists and poets to express their feelings and displeasure concerning World War I. While it began in Zurich's Cabaret Voltaire, it soon became an international movement that was embraced by many who felt the same way. It was an interesting movement as it rejected rational thinking and logic. It brought about a whole new way to express one's thoughts through arts and literature.
Chocolate
Almost everyone loves Swiss chocolate, and there's a reason for it! Switzerland has chocolate making down to a science and many other chocolate types just don't compare. Swiss chocolate is rich and creamy and just seems to melt in your mouth. Once you've had Swiss chocolate, you will see why Switzerland has become known for its chocolates throughout the world.
Music Festivals
If you are looking to take part in a music festival, head over to Switzerland. Each year this country hosts everything from rock to classical music events. In fact, every season there is at least one music festival going on. These include the Annual Classical Music Festival, The Rock Oz'Arenes festival and the SnowpenAir festival.
Cheese
Those who don't live in Switzerland often assume that Swiss cheese is just a cheese with holes in it. While, Emmental cheese in Switzerland does resemble this, Swiss cheese is so much more. The country loves its cheeses and you can find 450 different varieties of cheeses. It's a cheese lover's paradise, that's for sure! So when you want to buy Swiss cheese, don't just turn to cheese with holes in it. There are so many different options to choose from that you might have never knew existed! So what food is switzerland famous for? Well think fondue and raclette.
Banks
If you are concerned about your privacy (and who shouldn't be), Switzerland is a great country to do your banking with. They are known for their privacy policy and they will keep your identity secured. They will not disclose the account holder's name except in extreme instances like the government needing it because of suspected terrorist activities. It's not uncommon for foreign individuals to put a lot of their money into Swiss banks simply because the economy is so stable and Switzerland is considered to be one of the world's best countries to do your banking with.
Neutrality
Have you ever heard the phrase, "I'm Switzerland" when getting into a debate with someone? What that means is that Switzerland is known for their no-interference policy. Basically, they commonly take a neutral stance when other countries are having an issue with one another. In fact, they haven't been in any war since 1505. Because of their neutral stance for centuries, they have been able to reap the benefits of a stable economy consistently.
The Lakes
In Switzerland, the lakes are absolutely incredible. There are a number of different large and small lakes scattered throughout the country. They are quite picturesque with the mountains scattered behind them as a backdrop. In particular, Lake Zurich and Lake Geneva have become beloved by both residents and tourists alike. It's not surprising that Switzerland has because famous for it's lakes as they have some of the most gorgeous lake views in the entire world.
Trains
One of the things that Switzerland has become famous for are their trains, with 46 different railway companies. It has a very well established central train system which allows for tourists and locals to easily get from one destination to another. Traveling by train is seamless and quick. There is also incredible scenery to see no matter where you are traveling to in the country.
Zurich
Zurich is one of Switzerland's famous places and in actual fact is famous around the world due to the fact that surveys have shown that this city has the highest quality of life as compared to anywhere else in the world. Visitors can enjoy incredible accommodations, outstanding cuisine and unique shopping experiences. The Romans founded Zurich and this city is located in the north central part of Switzerland. It's not uncommon to visit this area and see a celebrity or two strolling around as well.
CeRN
Located in Geneva, this is the European Organization for Physics Research. It houses the largest Physical Laboratory in the world. One of the interesting things about it is that it's located 100 meters underground. Many discoveries have been made here and the most powerful accelerator in the world was created here back in 2008. CeRN allows scientists to study matter and try to understand how the Universe began.
Leave us a Comment:In conclusion, these are just some of the many things that Switzerland is famous for. It's a great country to visit with a lot of things to do, fabulous food and friendly locals. Everyone should put Switzerland on their travel bucket list!
- Can you add any things Switzerland is famous for to our list?
- Which of these things on our list of 'what is Switzerland famous for' surprised you the most?
Originally from South Africa, now living in Australia, Jolene is a wife and a mother to three beautiful daughters. Together with her family, she is embarking on a journey towards changing her current stress-filled life to one focusing on her dreams and her passion for travel. She wants to share her stories in the hope to inspire you to chase your own dreams!