Switzerland Facts and Figures
Switzerland is best known for its neutrality, its banks,
a great variety of cheeses and chocolate,
famous watches and its public transport system.
Geography:
Switzerland is situated in Western Europe; the country is landlocked and contains three basic topographical areas: the Swiss Alps on the south, the Central Plateau (or Middleland), and the Jura Mountains on the north. The Alps cover approx. 65% ot the total area, and water and glaciers make up for about 6% of its territory.
Coordinates: 46 50 00 N / 8 20 00 E
Bordering Countries: Germany (north), France (west), Italy (south), Austria (east), Liechtenstein (east)
Lowest Point: Lake Maggiore 193 m (633 ft) above sea level
Highest Point: Dufourspitze 4,634 m (15,203 ft) above sea level
Area Total: 41,285 sq kilometers (15,940 sq miles)
Area Land: 39,770 sq kilometers (15,351 sq miles)
Area Water: 1,520 sq kilometers (587 sq miles)
Boundaries: 1,852 km (1,151 miles)
Capital: Berne
Largest City: Zurich
Other Major Cities: Geneva, Basel, Lucerne, Lugano, Lausanne, St. Gallen
Climate: January 0°C (32°F) / July 18.5°C (65°F)
Annual Rainfall: 1000.76 mm (39.4 in)
People:
The Swiss are obsessed with cleanliness, punctuality and a good working attitude which rewards them the highest standard of living in Europe. The infrastructure for tourists is very developed, and the Swiss are friendly and proud of the beauty of Switzerland. Many Swiss speak decent English.
Population: approx. 7,800,000
Languages: German, French, Italian, Romansch
Ethnic Divisions: German 64%; French 20%; Italian 7%; Romansch 1%; Other 8%
Religions: Catholic 42%; Protestant 35%; None 9%; Other 14%
Government:
Switzerland is a federal republic with an Executive branch (7 members), a Legislative branch (bicameral Parliament with the Council of States = upper House and the National Council = lower House), and a Judicial branch (Supreme Court). The country is divided into 26 administrative cantons (see map above). Switzerland was founded on August 1, 1291.
National Holiday: August 1st
Currency: 1 Swiss Franc (CHF) = 100 centimes / ~ $1 = CHF 0.95 (Jan.'12)
Time Zone: CET
Useful Links:
Swiss Government:
Swiss Government
Federal Statistical Office
Swiss Embassies
Swiss Media:
Switzerland Newspapers Links
News by Swiss Info online
Swiss TV
Swiss Radio Stations Links
Switzerland Hotel Guide and Reservation Services
