Swiss Stories

Marc Mussler

Young Swiss tattoo artists

Society
Following up on our article on the pioneers who shaped the world of tattooing before the internet age, we now portray the new generation of tattoo artists who continue to make Switzerland a trend-setter in this field.

by Vanessa Hambaryan

absinthe

Absinthe: Swiss local product leaves behind its shady past

Society
Switzerland's Val-de-Travers is the birthplace of absinthe and has strong links to this local product that was banned for many years. An interactive exhibition in Môtiers in the canton of Neuchâtel tells its extraordinary story, while some distillers have set about seeking a PGI. We take a closer look at a spirit with a colourful past.

by Tatiana Tissot

swiss rock

Switzerland rocks!

Society
From Ticino to St Gallen and on to Geneva: today's rock scene is as vibrant as it is varied. Here's a rundown of some Swiss bands making themselves heard.
Stallions held in group on pasture

The Freiberger horse: 100% Swiss

Society
The Freiberger horse originated some 200 years ago in Switzerland's historic Jura region. Because it is the only Swiss horse breed, it receives particular support from the Swiss National Stud Farm.
Monte Rosa Hut SAC

The Swiss mountain huts

Society
The mountain huts operated by the Swiss Alpine Club (SAC) are unique in Switzerland and the world. Since the middle of the 19th century they have offered shelter and lodging in some of the most rugged mountain areas of the Swiss Alps. There are currently 153 SAC huts with a capacity for some 9,000 people in the Swiss Alps – from emergency bivouacs at altitudes above 4,000 metres, to self-catering huts, to mountain chalets that offer hikers ample creature comforts. SAC huts are open to all hikers and mountaineers.
Frutiger font

Adrian Frutiger, forever true to type

Society
Adrian Frutiger, who died in 2015, was one of the most influential Swiss typographers of the 20th century. His work, exemplified by the Univers typeface, was a precursor for the way typography is approached today.
Ajla Del Ponte, Sarah Atcho, Mujinga Kanbundji et Salomé Kora

Swiss sprinters: the women's dream team

Society
Fourth at the last World Championships in Doha in 2019, the Swiss women in the 4 x 100 metres relay will be aiming for a medal at the Tokyo Olympic Games. They represent Switzerland and have roots in Côte d'Ivoire, Benin, Congo and Bosnia, which is also their strength.

by Bertrand Monnard