Swiss Stories

Avengers © Keystone

Five Swiss super talents in the Marvel Universe

History
Where would Stan Lee's superheroes be without Switzerland? The 2019 blockbuster 'Avengers: Endgame' called for no end of Swiss prowess. Indeed, even the heroes in tights seem drawn to our country...
2019 Brochure Cailler 200 ans NCH p.2)) © Nestlé S.A

Chocolate and Switzerland: a story that goes way back

History
Say chocolate and people will think of Switzerland – wherever you go. In fact, the Swiss have been making chocolate since the early 19th century. Here's how it all began.

by Lea Huszno

Modern direct democracy

Modern direct democracy

History
When it comes to political co-determination by citizens, Switzerland is the undisputed world champion. More than one third of all referendums ever held at national level worldwide have taken place in Switzerland. The historical origins of direct democracy in Switzerland are just as interesting as the continuing topical nature of citizens' rights themselves. We provide below an overview.

by Bruno Kaufmann

Riverside bar scene, Lucerne (hi-res). Credit: © Simon Conway

Swiss Craft Beer Boom

History
Switzerland is famous for many things and now its burgeoning beer scene is beginning to gain recognition. The demise of the beer cartel at the end of the twentieth century opened up the industry and provided the space for Swiss brewers to create and flourish. They have responded by establishing breweries and microbreweries in unprecedented numbers and Switzerland has emerged as a major contributor to the ever-swelling European craft beer wave.