Swiss Stories

Cylinder music box at CIMA © T. Tissot

The captivating delights of Swiss mechanical engineering

Science & Education
Though closely related to watchmaking, Swiss music boxes and automated dolls are still less well known than Switzerland's famous watches. And yet their inner workings are just as complex - sometimes even more so…

by Tatiana Tissot

The largest Mondaine clock in Switzerland (nine meters in diameter) is in the Aarau train station The largest Mondaine clock in Switzerland (nine meters in diameter) is in the Aarau train station © SBB

Swiss design: nine objects that have acquired cult status

History
Le Corbusier, Jürg Bally, Kurt Tuth, Christophe Guberan, Nicolas Le Moigne, Adrien Rovero, Atelier Oï and Big-Game are among hundreds of designers who have elevated Swiss design to international significance. Swiss designers past and present express and cultivate a unique identity based on minimalism, quality, functionality and innovation. Here’s a look at nine fascinating and indispensable objects.

by Vanessa Hambaryan

Cow 'Chou-Fleur' © Mavachamoi

Swiss cows and goats seek sponsors

Society
Ever thought of adopting a cow or a goat to help support Swiss farmers? The idea is catching on in our cities and is proving popular with the farmers too.

by Tatiana Tissot

Apprenticeships

Apprenticeships the recipe for Swiss success

Economics
In Switzerland, vocational education and training (VET) is highly valued and allows young people to learn a trade by combining classroom study with in-company work. More and more countries are taking an interest in this model, which is an effective tool for combating unemployment.
Lucerne

Basel and Lucerne – when carnival becomes art

Society
Did you know that Switzerland is (also) home to the carnival? A number of cities organise carnivals every year, like Basel and Lucerne. Over the course of several days, locals adorn themselves in festive costume – to the delight of all.

by Dimitri Kas

© Wildbiene

7 Unexpected Swiss Start-ups

Economics
Switzerland is home to a high-quality start-up environment. In line with the country’s long-standing and traditional strengths in engineering, biotechnology, medical technology and financial services, many Swiss start-ups within those sectors seek to develop creative solutions in the technology sector.
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