Swiss Stories

Roger

Federer's good for Switzerland

Society
Roger Federer – the man and his game – embody reliability and excellence, which are also associated with Switzerland. He also projects an image of a modern and open Switzerland. He reached the landmark of 100 career titles in 2019. Experts share their views on Federer's international role.

by Bertrand Monnard

Hugo Koblet

Swiss cycling pros

Society
Switzerland is not just a nation of tennis players and skiers. The competitive cycling scene has also often seen Swiss pros in the lead in the world's most important races. Five powerful pedallers: introducing Switzerland's leading cyclists.
ACE expedition

When Switzerland enhances polar research

Science & Education
The Swiss Polar Institute (SPI) typifies the Swiss grass-roots approach to research. It is the result of an initiative by passionate and dedicated individuals who work with Swiss research institutions. The Swiss government is delighted to be able to support such initiatives.
Gordon Bennett

Switzerland, home of ballooning

Society
Although ballooning in Switzerland is most commonly associated with the record-breaking exploits of the Piccard family, its history actually dates back to 1788 when a hydrogen-filled balloon took to the air from Basel.
Le violon à l’honneur à Genève

Violins take centre stage in Geneva

Society
For the first time in its history, the world's leading international competition for young violinists will be held in Switzerland. The Menuhin Competition, known as the 'Olympics of the Violin' will see the 44 top young violinists worldwide compete in Geneva from 12–22 April. This year two Swiss artists – Sumina Studer and Anatol János Toth – have made the competition, selected from over 300 young violinists from all over the world.
Swiss flag

10 Surprising Facts about Switzerland

Society
Everyone recognizes Switzerland as the land of mountains, cheese and happy people. However, glossy tourism brochures do not tell the entire story: Switzerland is much more than a country of stereotypes.

by Kristīne Strazdiņa

Avalanche

Avalanche risk management included in world heritage

Environment
Knowledge of avalanches and avalanche protection is a vital tradition in Switzerland. Since November 2018, avalanche risk management has been added to the UNESCO list of the intangible cultural heritage of humanity. The inclusion was based on a joint application submitted by Switzerland and Austria. But what exactly does avalanche risk management mean?