Switzerland sightseeing. Travel guide - attractions, sights, nature and touristic places

Switzerland has prepared a great choice of entertainment for its guests. Simply every traveler will find here activities to fit one's taste. Several important landmarks can be found in Bern. The oldest religious landmark in the country, the French Church, is also located there. Built in 1270, the church was restored and redesigned several times. The inner design of the church amazes visitors with magnificent frescoes and elegant drawings. As the church keeps working, it's always crowded.

Kornhaus granary is one more place that is worth visiting. Originally, higher floors of the building were used as a granary, while the cellar was used to store wine. In the beginning of the 19th century, Kornhaus was transformed into a tavern, and in 1983 it became the main club in the city. The building is distinguished by very interesting architecture - in it arcs you will see sculptures of dragons, mermaids and other mythical creatures. Kornhaus halls are decorated with historic costumes, statues and figurines that depict musicians.

The Russian Church is an important tourist destination in Geneva. The church was built in the middle of the 19th century by initiative of La Grande Duchesse Anna Feodorovna. The sanctuary is distinguished by luxury design as many items in the church were gifted by the Royal Family. The city of Lausanne is also famous for its religious landmarks. Here travelers are recommended to visit the Church of st. Francis that was built in the 13nth century. During more than 7 centuries long history, the church has significantly changed its original look. The only thing that is left unchanged is elegant and strict design of halls. The local cathedral, which was built in approximately same period, features more luxurious design. Its doors and facade are decorated with figures depicting priests, Bible heroes and angels. The walls and ceiling of the cathedral are decorated with magnificent frescos. Copyright www.orangesmile.com

Among the sights of Lucerne the ancient Water Tower is one of the most famous. Besides its original purpose, the tower was also used as a prison and during several years it was even transformed into an archive and a treasury. Unfortunately, the original design and style of the tower didn't survive till our days, but numerous legends and stories known to every local and guide let us know about the tower and its former look. There is a chapel near the tower, and together these buildings form a part of a medieval protective facility.

History and Entertainment

Switzerland is a country with a rich history that has a direct effect on its culture and traditions. In the times of Ancient Rome, the territory of modern Switzerland seemed extremely attractive to many conquerors. In the Middle Ages, the coveted territory was at the crossroads of important transportation and trade routes, which just strengthened an interest in it. The official date of the establishment of Switzerland is 1291 when three alpine valleys were unified.

Already at the beginning of the 16th century, ten autonomous territories joined the union. In the Middle Ages, the major problem of the young state was associated with religious wars. In the late 18th century, the country was under France and gained independence only when Napoleon was defeated in the battle of Waterloo. Since the middle of the 19th century, Switzerland had passed through the period of the stable and smooth development.

Switzerland is known to many people with its upscale ski resorts, some of which welcome fans of winter entertainments all year round. Some of the most beautiful resorts are located on Mount Jungfrau. In total, there are seven resort areas combined with lifts and transport connection. The famous resort of Wengen has long been a place where competitions of the international level are held. It is famous for its high environmental indicators.

During the year, a lot of interesting holidays are celebrated in Switzerland. For instance, Saint Nicolas’ Day is traditionally celebrated on 6 December. Its local residents consider him as their main patron and organize festive street processions and make special festive treats in his honor. You can witness interesting entertainments by visiting one of the Swiss cities on Christmas Eve. By 25 December, all streets are decorated with special festive lights. There are traditional fairs, outdoor skating rinks and multiple market stalls with popular festive treats.

The country is also popular with shopping enthusiasts who come here from all over the world to buy top-rated Rolex and Omega watches. Local craftsmen are notable for making interesting pocket knives. Sweet teeth are attracted by Swiss chocolate. A lot of unique cheeses are produced in the country, so exactly cheese is still one of the main gastronomic symbols of Switzerland.