Interesting Facts About Switzerland That You Probably Didn’t Know
Posted on Thursday, February 10th, 2022 by Navneet Kaur Leave a Comment
Switzerland is a beautiful country, which has many incredible sights to see. The country is very powerful in terms of economy and diplomacy. There are many parts that make Switzerland beautiful in every aspect, and it is one of the most peaceful countries in the World. Switzerland is a landlocked country in Central Europe, and it has borders with France, Italy, Austria and Germany. Apart from the breathtaking Alps, Switzerland offers thousands of scenic locations to enjoy. Scenic mountain lakes, beautiful valleys, picturesque villages, quaint farmhouses, lush greenery, swiss watches, swiss chocolates, etc., are just some of the facts about Switzerland that you’ll love there!
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Switzerland’s size makes it a country of great diversity. However, many people are unaware that this small country contains four official languages: German, French, Italian, and Romansh. Check out our travel guide to learn more interesting facts about Switzerland and what is unique about the beautiful country!
Switzerland Is The Most Expensive Country In The World
According to the survey, Switzerland remains the most expensive country globally. It’s no surprise to anyone, but it makes for quite a talking point when travelling in Europe. It has one of the highest costs of living in the world. The prices for goods and services are among the highest globally, especially for housing which is considered one of the most significant expenses. With an average price of 62.66 US dollars per day, the country is 40% more expensive than New York. Zurich and Geneva were ranked second and third on the list, with Norway coming fourth.
Swiss Chocolate
Switzerland is the home of some of the world’s most luscious chocolate. For instance, Swiss chocolate is one of their best products. The rich flavour of this chocolate goes well with different desserts or just by itself. One of the exciting facts about Switzerland is that they have a tradition of producing high-quality chocolate. The Swiss are very proud of their national chocolates, and they enjoy eating them even without milk. It’s genuinely a must-try if you’re ever visiting Switzerland!
Alpine Peak
In the south of Switzerland, Alpine peaks are rising to almost 4000 metres above sea level, while there are vast forests, rolling hills, and wide stretches of farmland in the north. The Alpine mountain range is a natural barrier, separating and uniting Europe. For millennia, it has been a source of inspiration for many filmmakers, painters and poets. The Alps are an excellent destination for hikers and skiers alike: the varied landscape is ideal for an active vacation. The high peaks of the Alps, such as Mount Blanc and Matterhorn, attract many mountaineers and climbers to their summits every year.
World’s Largest Producer Of Cheese
Did you know that Switzerland is one of the world’s largest cheese producers? From Emmental to Gruyere, Vacherin Fribourgeois and Appenzeller, Switzerland has over 475 varieties of cheese from all regions. Switzerland’s exciting fact is that the country is home to more than 22,000 dairies that produce about 191,000 metric tons of cheese a year. The most popular types of cheese in Switzerland come from the valleys, where they are grown on farms. The Valais is famous for its Gruyère cheese, while Appenzell is home to various cheeses made by hand. Yet another region that’s well known for its cheeses is the Emmental Valley. If you are a cheese lover, this is the place for you.
A Swiss Chemist First made LSD
LSD was originally synthesized on 16 November 1938 by Swiss chemist Albert Hofmann at the Sandoz Laboratories in Basel, Switzerland, as part of an extensive research program searching for medically sound ergot alkaloid derivatives. LSD is an ergoline derivative, and its structure includes both pyrrole and phenethylamine groups. It also contains methylergonovine, dimethyloctanediyl and trimethyltryptamine functional groups. Hofman accidentally discovered LSD’s psychedelic properties when he took a drug dose to help him relax and ease his tension after falling from a bicycle.
Gotthard Tunnel Is The Longest In The World
The Gotthard Base Tunnel is the longest railway tunnel in the world. It was opened to rail traffic on 1 June 2016 and took 17 years to complete construction at the cost of $12 billion. This is one of the interesting facts about Switzerland; the Gotthard Base Tunnel is a crucial piece of Swiss infrastructure. It will help alleviate some of the congestion experienced on the north-south road axis between Erstfeld and Bodio. The 57 km long tunnel connects the north and south of Europe as a part of an overall rail network that is more earthbound than ever before. The Gotthard Base Tunnel has become the world’s longest rail tunnel and the first to be drilled through a mountain range.
Numbers Of Lakes In Switzerland
With over 7000 lakes, Switzerland is one of the most beautiful countries in Europe. It’s not surprising that it attracts many tourists every year who’ve come to enjoy its natural beauty. These lakes boast a variety of opportunities for recreation and entertainment. These lakes are nestled high up in the mountains and surrounded by snowy peaks, and these lakes offer an idyllic vacation destination for hikers and skiers alike. The exciting fact about Switzerland is that there are more lakes in the country where you’ll love to enjoy the most spectacular views. While all of these lakes are different in size, shape and depth, they all have one thing in common: They inspire those who visit them to want to get out on the water.
Europe’s Highest Railway Station In Switzerland
Europe’s highest railway station at an altitude of 3,454 metres above sea level in the Swiss Alps. The railway station was called Jungfraujoch and opened to the public on 1 August 1912. This railway line is part of the significant Alptransit project that links two major Alpine valleys – the Jungfrau and the Mönch. Travellers can reach the terminus via a cog-wheel railway or an aerial tramway. It takes only one hour to get to this incredible place from Kleine Scheidegg by train. And you know this is one of the essential facts about Switzerland that the Jungfraubahnen in Switzerland runs the highest and longest railway tunnel in Europe!
Cantons Of Switzerland
The 26 cantons of Switzerland (German: Kanton, French: cantons, Italian: cantons, Romansh: cantons) are the member states of the Swiss Confederation. There are 26 cantons in Switzerland; they are usually referred to as “the federal states of the Swiss Confederation” or “half-cantons”. Originating as individual city-states, they merged to form a single nation—the Swiss Confederation—in 1291. Each canton has its constitution, legislature, government and courts. If you glance at a map of Switzerland, you will notice 26 different coloured circles. In fact, these 26 cantons of Switzerland each have their unique character and identity.
Hot-Air Balloon Festival
Switzerland is home to many festivals and events. There are so many festivals in this country that you can consider it the festival hub of Europe. The international hot air balloons festival or Château-d’Oex is one of the most popular events in Switzerland. It was first staged in 1979 and held every year for nine days at the end of January. During this event, people can fly their hot air balloons in every town and city in Switzerland. This festival has become a popular tourist attraction for Swiss and international tourists who flock to see the colourful balloon launch into the skies above their heads.
Tallest Dam In Switzerland
The tallest dam in Switzerland is the Grande Dixence Dam, located in Valais. The Grande Dixence Dam stands at 935 feet (285 metres), making it one of the highest dams in Switzerland. The Grande Dixence Dam is a hydroelectric dam on the Dixence River in the canton of Valais in Switzerland. The centrepiece of the dam system was completed in 1959 and created one of Europe’s largest artificial reservoirs, with a capacity of 1.24 km³. This interesting fact about Switzerland will amaze you that it is the highest gravity dam in the world, the fifth highest dam overall, and the highest dam in Europe.
Birthplace Of The Red Cross
Have you ever heard of the Red Cross? It may seem like an insignificant organization to many, but it is one of the most potent humanitarian organizations in the world. In fact, its creation was so vital that it had been recognized as the birth of international law. The Swiss Red Cross was established in 1864 to provide medical services to citizens in war zones. It played a crucial role during World War I and II and armed conflicts in Africa and Asia. In time, it also emerged as an essential player on the international stage by helping resolve conflict situations, promoting humanitarian law, and providing relief to victims of war or internal strife.
Coffee In Zurich Is The Most expensive In The World
Most of us love to start our day with a warm cup of coffee or enjoy an afternoon pick-me-up. But many are surprised to learn that there is no comparison between American and European coffee prices when it comes to price. Coffee in Zurich is the most expensive coffee globally, and it is more than twice as expensive as it is in New York and London. According to Bloomberg’s Cafe Index, the price of a coffee cup at a cafe is an average of $7.60, which also makes Zurich one of the most expensive cities for a morning cup. Coffee is a daily habit for millions of people across the globe.
Switzerland Have Four National Languages
A small country located in the Alps, Switzerland is one of the most neutral countries in Europe. With just under 8 million people, the Switzerland population comprises several different cultures and languages. This is really interesting fact to learn about Switzerland that it has four official national languages: German, French, Italian and Romansh. Swiss German, or Alemannic, is spoken by most of the Swiss population, with around 63% who can say it well enough to be considered native speakers. The primary language used in writing and media is Standard German (Hochdeutsch), also taught in schools across the country.
Highest Quality Of Life
The quality of life in Switzerland is among the highest in the world. The quality of life in Switzerland is considered very high by the vast majority of its population. The country offers a highly developed infrastructure and one of the highest living standards in the world. With a high quality of life and a low unemployment rate, it is no surprise that the small European country of Switzerland is ranked as one of the best countries to live in.
Switzerland Has Low Unemployment Rate
Switzerland has some of the lowest unemployment rates in the world. This is due to a combination of low business and personal taxation, strict labour laws and high import duties on foreign goods. The major European powers have long honoured Switzerland’s independence and neutrality. Switzerland is a peaceful, prosperous, and stable modern market economy with low unemployment, a highly skilled labour force, and a per capita GDP among the highest in the world. Switzerland’s unemployment rate is just 3.1%. Switzerland has a very stable economy, and its central location makes it an excellent place to do business with Europe and other parts of the world.
Swiss Bank
The Swiss bank has been a part of the Swiss investment bank and financial services and is the third-largest in Switzerland with over CHF300 billion of assets and CHF11. 7 billion of equity. The most important advantage of having a Swiss bank account is that your account details will be kept secret from the government. People usually keep their money in Switzerland because it is one of the safest places to deposit money. These banks have powerful privacy laws which guarantee absolute protection to any individual or organization if they deposit their money here. Switzerland is one of the most preferred destinations for people who want to keep their money safe. The country’s banking system is one of the best in the World, where you can store your money and earn interest on it. If you have a bank account in Switzerland and are gaining interest, then there are chances that you may be paying less tax than required by law.
Watches Of Switzerland
In watches, few brands have a rich history and reputation as prestigious as Switzerland. This is very exciting fact to know about Switzerland that Swiss watches are synonymous with elegance, grace, and sophistication. The watch industry in Switzerland can trace its roots back to 1967. Swiss watches are synonymous with luxury and quality. The very best Swiss watch brands have been highly sought after for decades, and in recent years, their popularity has continued to grow. Swiss watches are seen as some of the most prestigious globally, and many people aspire to own one. No matter what model you choose, there’s a guarantee it will be a collector’s item for years to come.
Switzerland Has A Rich Sporting History
The Swiss should be proud of the rich sporting history they have. Although it is not a big country, Switzerland has felt its presence in the sporting arena. The Swiss people are world-class winners of many major sports tournaments and competitions, including tennis, skiing, formula one racing, and even football. The small country’s soccer players have won many medals in Olympic Games. Switzerland has also been a pioneer in developing sports for disabled people, with many disabled athletes coming from the country making an appearance at both Partly.
Switzerland Is Home To The World’s Largest Machine
If you’d like to get a good idea of just how big the world’s most giant machine is, the Swiss Large Hadron Collider (LHC) is one of Earth’s most impressive and most significant machines. The Large Hadron Collider (LHC) is the world’s largest and most powerful particle accelerator in Switzerland. It was built by the European Organization for Nuclear Research (CERN) between 1998 and 2008 in collaboration with over 10,000 scientists from over 100 different countries. LHC consists of a 27-kilometre ring of superconducting magnets with many accelerating structures to boost the energy of the particles along the way.
Stoosbahn In Switzerland
The Stoosbahn is a funicular railway in the Swiss canton of Schwyz. It links the village of Stoos, at an altitude of 1,400 m (4,600 ft), with the summit of Pfannenstiel, at 2,095 m (6,845 ft). The line is owned and operated by the Forchbahn AG. It was opened in 1901 and is owned by Stoosbahnen AG. The station at Stoos is located within a short walk of the tourist office and serves as an ideal place to visit! If you plan a trip to Switzerland or explore the country more, you need to know about this exciting rail network.
Strict Laws Exist Around Owning Pets
In Switzerland, owning a pet is not only about companionship but also about responsibility. In fact, the law states that ‘animals must be kept under control at all times and may not disturb the peace of the neighbours’. Strict rules exist around owning pets in Switzerland, with many banned breeds. Some dogs are on this banned list because of their perceived danger to humans and other animals, while others are forbidden because they are bred to fight. This is one of the interesting facts about Switzerland that the country has some of the most challenging pet laws in the world. Not only must you register your dog or cat with the government, but you also have to get a permit for it and keep track of its movements.
Switzerland Made First Absinthe
A French doctor made the first absinthe in Switzerland who fled to Geneva during the French revolution. But it is also true that many famous brands later copied the formula and used copycat names like Pernod and Ricard. Absinthe is a distilled, highly alcoholic (45%-74% ABV / 90-148° proof), anise-flavoured spirit derived from botanicals, including the flowers and leaves of Artemisia absinthium (wormwood) and green anise. Absinthe traditionally has a natural green colour but may also be colourless. It is commonly referred to in historical literature as “la fée verte” (“the Green Fairy”). However, if you look at the actual history of absinthe, you will find that it was consumed as a medicinal tonic.
The Swiss Drink A Lot Of Wine
There are many reasons why the Swiss drink a lot of wine. Historically, it has been a big part of their culture. Vineyards also have a long history in Switzerland, and the wines produced there have received some decent criticism over the years. It is an exciting fact about Switzerland that you can consider over 400 wineries in Switzerland alone! They produce alcohol for consumption within the country, but it is also exported outside. It’s no secret that the Swiss have the highest number of drinkers. In fact, in 2016, they drank an average of 47 litres per person. According to Wine Institute research, that’s more than double the amount consumed by Americans and nearly as much as the global average of 68 litres per capita.
Swiss Is Home To World’s Longest Staircase
Did you know that the longest staircase in the world is located in Switzerland? The purpose of this structure was to build a shortcut for walkers from Turbenthal to Rüti ZH. The longest staircase in the world, measuring an impressive 3.4 km long and 11,674 steps, is located in the Bernese Oberland region of the Swiss Alps. This beautiful and historical site is called The Niesen Funicular and was built in 1906-1910 as an economical way to move goods between the two mountain areas. It is, therefore, no surprise that it has been attracting a large number of tourists every year and is the longest staircase in the world.
Switzerland Is One Of The Only Truly Democratic Countries
The world has a lot of countries with varying levels of democracy, and Switzerland is the only country that has created a democratic state with no king or queen ruling its citizens. The government of Switzerland has been known for being a neutral country and one that is not involved in the politics of other countries. People don’t know about this beautiful country because it has one of the most democratic governments; they are very proud of their democracy—the land with different ethnic groups coming together to create one nation with equality for everyone. One of the most important facts about Switzerland that being so small and dependent on trade, Switzerland is the most powerful country regarding freedom and independence!
Switzerland Has The World’s Largest Nuclear Shelter
During the Cold War, the Sonnenberg Tunnel was built in 1971 and 1976 to protect 20,000 people from nuclear weapons. The world’s largest civilian nuclear fallout shelter is 1,550 meters (5,090 ft) long and contains a motorway tunnel. Do you know that this complex is considered the safest nuclear shelter in the world? The shelter was conceived after World War II when weapons of mass destruction were seen as a real threat to society. At an undisclosed location within Switzerland, it can accommodate up to 80% of the country’s population in the event of any danger. In addition to this, the Sonnenberg Tunnel is the safest place in the world!
Switzerland Has Highest Gun Ownership Rate
Switzerland has the highest gun ownership rate in Europe, with 27.6 guns per 100 residents, according to a 2017 report by the Switzerland-based Small Arms Survey. Switzerland has the highest gun ownership rate, with an estimated 2 million guns in circulation across 8.3 million people. This is one of the exciting facts to know about Switzerland that it is famously neutral in global politics, and it boasts one of the world’s most powerful economies on a per capita basis. Gun ownership is on the rise in Switzerland, which has one of the highest rates of private firearm ownership globally.
Highest Life Expectancy
Switzerland has the highest life expectancy of all the countries in the world. The average Swiss citizen will live to 83.2 years old, according to a report from the United Nations Human Development Report 2019. With an average lifespan of 85 years, it is almost five years more than the European average. Another fact from this report is that Switzerland also holds second place in Europe regarding cancer survival rates. It is possible to live longer and healthier in this country than anywhere else on Earth. The Swiss enjoy these benefits not only because of their luxurious lifestyle but also because of their excellent health care system.
Switzerland is a country in the heart of Europe but has some very different traditions. When you look at it from the outside, Switzerland seems like an easy place to visit. It’s surrounded by beautiful scenery and there are plenty of things to do as a tourist. However, if you’re going to be living in this beautiful country for an extended amount of time, there are quite a few facts about Switzerland that might surprise you about life here.
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About Navneet View All Posts
Navneet Kaur is a Professional Content Writer with 5+ years of experience, she started her career as a Content Writer. Apart from having good knowledge of marketing and business, she firmly believes in dreaming big and making them come true. She lives with a passion to explore and learn about adventure, destinations, history and live events happening around. Including her travel writing skills, she has also written about places, arts and entertainment, personal experiences, nature and its beauty, etc.
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