Liestal

Liestal is the capital of the Basel-Landschaft canton in Switzerland. It is located in the district of Liestal District, and it is a part of the Basel Metropolitan Area.

History

The history of Liestal dates back to the Bronze Age, but the first documented mention of the town was in 1252 under the name Liesthal. The town was ruled by various powers over the centuries, including the Habsburgs and the Prince-Bishopric of Basel. In 1501, Liestal became a part of the Swiss Confederation.

Geography

Liestal is located in the Jura Mountains and is surrounded by several municipalities, including Sissach, Lausen, and Bubendorf. The town is divided into several districts, including the Old Town, the New Town, and the industrial area.

Economy

The economy of Liestal is diverse, with sectors such as manufacturing, services, and retail playing significant roles. The town is home to several multinational companies, including Roche, a global healthcare company.

Culture

Liestal is known for its rich cultural heritage. The town hosts several annual events, such as the Liestal Fire Parade, a traditional Swiss event that marks the end of winter. The town also has several museums, including the Museum.BL, which showcases the history and culture of the Basel-Landschaft canton.

Education

Education in Liestal is overseen by the Canton of Basel-Landschaft Department of Education. The town has several primary and secondary schools, as well as vocational schools. The University of Basel, one of the oldest universities in Switzerland, is also located nearby.

Transport

Liestal is well-connected by road and rail. The town is served by the Swiss Federal Railways, and it is also a hub for several regional bus lines. The EuroAirport Basel-Mulhouse-Freiburg, the nearest international airport, is located about 30 kilometers away.

See also

• List of cities in Switzerland
• Cantons of Switzerland
• Swiss Confederation