Vaud

Vaud is one of the 26 cantons of Switzerland, located in the western part of the country. The capital of Vaud is Lausanne, which is also the largest city in the cantonal territory. The canton is the third largest in Switzerland in terms of population and fourth in terms of area.

History

The canton of Vaud was a subject territory of the Bernese Republic from the 16th century until 1798, when it was occupied by French troops. In 1803, Vaud joined the Swiss Confederation as a full member.

Geography

Vaud is bordered by the cantons of Geneva, Neuchâtel, Fribourg, Bern, and Valais. It also shares a border with France. The canton is characterized by its varied landscapes, which include the Jura Mountains, the Swiss Plateau, and the Alps.

Economy

The economy of Vaud is diverse, with sectors such as agriculture, industry, and services contributing significantly to its GDP. The canton is known for its wine production, particularly in the regions of Lavaux and Chablais. Other important industries include machinery, pharmaceuticals, and information technology.

Culture

Vaud is home to several cultural institutions, including the Lausanne Opera, the Vaud Museum of Fine Arts, and the Olympic Museum. The canton also hosts numerous festivals throughout the year, such as the Cully Jazz Festival and the Fête de la Musique.

Education

The canton of Vaud is home to several educational institutions of national and international repute. These include the University of Lausanne, the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Lausanne, and the Lausanne Hotel School.

See also

• Politics of Vaud
• List of municipalities in the canton of Vaud