Bern
Geography
Bern is the capital city of Switzerland, located in the Swiss Plateau, which is part of the larger geographical region known as the Swiss Mittelland. The city is situated on a peninsula formed by the meandering turns of the River Aare. The river flows around three sides of the city, providing a natural defense against potential invaders and a stunning backdrop for the city's historic architecture.
History
The history of Bern dates back to the 12th century. The city was founded by Duke Berchtold V of Zähringen in 1191, who is said to have named the city after a bear (Bär in German) he had killed. Bern became a Free Imperial City in 1218 after the extinction of the Zähringen line and joined the Swiss Confederation in 1353.
Architecture
Bern is renowned for its well-preserved medieval cityscape. The old town of Bern is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and thanks to its 6 kilometers of arcades - the locals refer to them as 'Lauben' - boasts one of the longest weather-sheltered shopping promenades in Europe. The cityscape is characterized by the uniformity of its high, sandstone buildings adorned with elaborate ornamental motifs. The most famous sight in the city is the Zytglogge, an elaborate medieval clock tower with a 15th-century astronomical clock.
Culture
Bern has a rich cultural scene with a range of events and cultural activities. The city is home to over 30 museums, including the Bern Historical Museum, the largest historical museum in Switzerland, and the Paul Klee Center, dedicated to the artist Paul Klee, who was born near Bern. The city also hosts several music festivals and has a vibrant nightlife with numerous bars, clubs, and live music venues.
Economy
Bern's economy is largely service-based, with a focus on sectors such as healthcare, education, and public administration. The city is also a hub for Swiss rail traffic, further strengthening its economic position. Several Swiss and international companies have their headquarters or offices in Bern, including Swisscom, the largest telecommunications company in Switzerland, and Toblerone, the chocolate bar brand known worldwide.
Education
Bern is home to one of the most prestigious universities in Switzerland, the University of Bern. The university offers a wide range of courses in various fields and is renowned for its research in disciplines such as astrophysics, art history, and social sciences. The city also has several professional schools and vocational training centers.
Politics
As the federal capital of Switzerland, Bern is the political center of the country. It is home to the Swiss Federal Assembly and Federal Council, making it a hub for national politics. The city itself has a strong local government with a mayor and city council, who are responsible for local affairs.