Explore Switzerland

Location:
Switzerland

Currency:
Swiss franc (CHF)

Communications:
The telephone code for Switzerland: + 41

About:
The Swiss Confederation was founded in 1291 as a defensive alliance among three cantons. In succeeding years, other localities joined the original three. The Swiss Confederation secured its independence from the Holy Roman Empire in 1499.

Switzerland's sovereignty and neutrality have long been honored by the major European powers, and the country was not involved in either of the two World Wars. The political and economic integration of Europe over the past half century, as well as Switzerland's role in many UN and international organizations, has strengthened Switzerland's ties with its neighbors.

However, the country did not officially become a UN member until 2002. Switzerland remains active in many UN and international organizations, but retains a strong commitment to neutrality.

The beautiful, mountainous country of Switzerland is landlocked in south-central Europe, and remains one of the most popular travel destinations on the planet.

It's famed for banking institutions, watch makers, cheeses and chocolates, mountain glaciers and lakes, and of course, fabulous skiing in the Alps.