Switzerland
File:Swiss Psalm (official instrumental).ogg
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| |
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Motto: Unus pro omnibus, omnes pro uno (Latin) | |
Anthem: Swiss Psalm | |
Location of Switzerland (dark green) in Europe (dark grey) | |
Capital | Bern |
Largest city | Zürich |
Official languages | German, French, Italian, Romansh |
Government | Federal republic |
Alain Berset | |
Walter Thurnherr | |
Area | |
• Total | 41,290 km2 (15,940 sq mi) (132nd) |
Population | |
• 2022 estimate | 8,637,000 |
• Density | 208/km2 (538.7/sq mi) |
GDP (PPP) | 2022 estimate |
• Total | $660.8 billion |
Currency | Swiss franc (CHF) |
Time zone | UTC+1 (CET) |
• Summer (DST) | UTC+2 (CEST) |
Driving side | right |
Calling code | +41 |
ISO 3166 code | [[ISO 3166-2:CH
|CH ]] |
Internet TLD | .ch |
Switzerland (German: Schweiz , French: Suisse ,
, Template:Lang-rm), officially the Swiss Confederation, is a landlocked country situated at the confluence of Western, Central, and Southern Europe. It is bordered by Germany to the north, France to the west, Italy to the south, and Austria and Liechtenstein to the east. Switzerland is a federal republic composed of 26 cantons, with Bern serving as the federal city.
History[edit | edit source]
Switzerland's history dates back to the formation of the Old Swiss Confederacy in the late medieval period. The country has maintained a policy of neutrality since the early 19th century, avoiding involvement in both World Wars. Switzerland is known for its direct democracy and federalism, with a long tradition of political and military neutrality.
Geography[edit | edit source]
Switzerland is renowned for its diverse geography, which includes the Swiss Alps in the south, the Swiss Plateau in the center, and the Jura Mountains in the northwest. The country is home to numerous lakes, including Lake Geneva, Lake Constance, and Lake Lucerne. The Rhine, Aare, and Rhone are the major rivers.
Economy[edit | edit source]
Switzerland has a highly developed economy and is one of the wealthiest countries in the world. It is known for its banking sector, watchmaking, and pharmaceutical industry. Major Swiss multinational corporations include Nestlé, Novartis, and Roche.
Demographics[edit | edit source]
Switzerland has a population of approximately 8.6 million people. The country has four official languages: German, French, Italian, and Romansh. The largest cities are Zürich, Geneva, Basel, and Lausanne.
Culture[edit | edit source]
Swiss culture is characterized by its diversity, influenced by the country's linguistic regions. Switzerland is famous for its cuisine, including Swiss chocolate, Swiss cheese, and fondue. The country is also known for its contributions to literature, art, and music.
Politics[edit | edit source]
Switzerland operates under a system of direct democracy, allowing citizens to propose and vote on referendums. The Federal Assembly is the national legislature, consisting of two chambers: the National Council and the Council of States. The Federal Council serves as the executive branch.
Related Pages[edit | edit source]
- Swiss neutrality
- Swiss cuisine
- Swiss Alps
- Banking in Switzerland
- Cantons of Switzerland
- Federal Assembly of Switzerland
- Swiss franc
- Swiss watchmaking industry
Categories[edit | edit source]
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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD