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switzerland is awesomelop0ijugtrf!
{{Redirect|Swiss}}
{{Redirect|Swiss Confederation|Swiss Confederacy|Old Swiss Confederacy}}
{{use dmy dates}}{{pp-move-indef}}

{{About|the country}}
{{Infobox Country
|native_name = <span style="white-space: nowrap;">{{lang|de|''Schweizerische Eidgenossenschaft''}} {{languageicon|de|]}}</span><br />{{lang|fr|''Confédération suisse''}} {{languageicon|fr|]}}<br />{{lang|it|''Confederazione Svizzera''}} {{languageicon|it|]}}<br />{{lang|rm|''Confederaziun svizra''}} {{languageicon|rm|]}}<br />{{lang|la|''Confoederatio Helvetica'' (CH)}} {{languageicon|la|]}}
|conventional_long_name = Swiss Confederation
|common_name = Switzerland
|image_flag = Flag of Switzerland.svg
|image_coat = Coat of Arms of Switzerland.svg
|image_map = Europe-Switzerland.svg
|map_caption = {{map caption|location_color=dark green|region=]|region_color=dark grey|legend=Europe-Switzerland.svg}}
|national_motto = ''(unofficial)'' "]" (Latin)<br />{{lang-en|One for all, all for one}}<br />{{lang-de|Einer für alle, alle für einen}}<br />{{lang-fr|Un pour tous, tous pour un}}<br />{{lang-it|Uno per tutti, tutti per uno}}<br />{{lang-rm|In per tuts, tuts per in}}
|national_anthem = "]"
|official_languages = ],<br/>],<br/>],<br/>]<ref>, article 4, "National languages" : ''National languages'' are German, French, Italian and Romansh; , article 70, "Languages", paragraph 1: The ''official languages'' of the Confederation are German, French and Italian. Romansh shall be an official language for communicating with persons of Romansh language.</ref>
|demonym = Swiss
|capital = ]<ref group=note>''De jure'' "federal city"; ''de facto'' capital. Because of historical federalist sensibilities, Swiss law does not designate a formal capital, and some federal institutions such as courts are located in other cities.</ref>
|latd=46 |latm=57 |latNS=N |longd=7 |longm=27 |longEW=E
|largest_city = ]
|legislature = ]
|upper_house = ]
|lower_house = ]
|government_type = ], with ] and ]
|leader_title1 = ]
|leader_name1 = <!--Ordered by seniority:-->] <small>(])</small><br />] <br />]<br />] <small>(])</small><br />]<br />]<br />]
|leader_title2 = ]
|leader_name2 = ]
|area_sq_mi = 15,940 <!--Do not remove per ]-->
|area_rank = 136th
|area_magnitude = 1 E10
|area_km2 = 41,284
|percent_water = 4.2
|population_estimate = 7,771,600<ref name="Population">{{cite web|url=http://www.bfs.admin.ch/bfs/portal/en/index/themen/01/02/blank/key/bevoelkerungsstand.html|title=Population size and population composition|date=2009|work=Swiss Federal Statistical Office |publisher=Swiss Federal Statistical Office, Neuchâtel|accessdate=2009-08-27}}</ref>
|population_growth (2009) = +1.4%
|population_estimate_year = 2009
|population_estimate_rank = 94th
|population_density_km2 = 188
|population_density_sq_mi = 477.4 <!--Do not remove per ]-->
|population_density_rank = 65th
|population_census = 7,593,500
|population_census_year = 2007
|GDP_PPP = $315.768 billion<ref name=imf2>{{cite web|url=http://www.imf.org/external/pubs/ft/weo/2009/02/weodata/weorept.aspx?sy=2006&ey=2009&scsm=1&ssd=1&sort=country&ds=.&br=1&c=146&s=NGDPD%2CNGDPDPC%2CPPPGDP%2CPPPPC%2CLP&grp=0&a=&pr.x=47&pr.y=11 |title=Switzerland|publisher=International Monetary Fund|accessdate=1 October 2009}}</ref>
|GDP_PPP_year = 2008
|GDP_PPP_rank = 38th
|GDP_PPP_per_capita = $43,195<ref name=imf2/>
|GDP_PPP_per_capita_rank = 7th
|GDP_nominal = $500.260 billion<ref name=imf2/>
|GDP_nominal_rank = 21st
|GDP_nominal_year = 2008
|GDP_nominal_per_capita = $68,433<ref name=imf2/>
|GDP_nominal_per_capita_rank = 4th
|HDI_year = 2007
|HDI = {{increase}} 0.960<ref>. The United Nations. Retrieved 5 October 2009.</ref>
|HDI_rank = 9th
|HDI_category = <span style="color:#090;">very&nbsp;high</span>
|Gini = 33.7
|Gini_year = 2000
|Gini_category = <span style="color:#fc0;">medium</span>
|sovereignty_type = ]
|established_event1 = ]
|established_event2 = ]
|established_event3 = ]
|established_event4 = ]
|established_event5 = ]
|established_date1 = 1 August<ref group=note>Traditional. The ] only mentions "early August" and the treaty is a renewal of an older one, now lost.</ref> 1291
|established_date2 = 22 September 1499
|established_date3 = 24 October 1648
|established_date4 = 7 August 1815
|established_date5 = 12 September 1848<ref>A declared the Federal Constitution adopted on 12 September 1848. A of 14 September 1848 specified that the powers of the institutions provided for by the 1815 Federal Treaty would expire at the time of the constitution of the ], which took place on 16 November 1848.</ref>
|currency = ]
|currency_code = CHF
|time_zone = ]
|utc_offset = +1
|time_zone_DST = ]
|utc_offset_DST = +2
|drives_on = right
|cctld = ]
|calling_code = ]
|footnotes =
|footnote1 =
}}
'''Switzerland''' ({{lang-de|]}},<ref group=note>The ] name is also sometimes spelt as ''Schwyz'' or ''Schwiiz''. '']'' is also the standard German (and international) name of one of the Swiss cantons.</ref> {{lang-fr|]}}, {{lang-it|]}}, {{lang-rm|la Svizra}}), officially the '''Swiss Confederation''' (''Confoederatio Helvetica'' in ], hence its ] country codes ]), is a ] consisting of ], with ] as the seat of the federal authorities. The country is situated in ]<ref group=note>Or ] depending on the definition. See ].</ref> where it is bordered by ] to the north, ] to the west, ] to the south, and ] and ] to the east.

Switzerland is a ] whose territory is geographically divided between the ], the ] and the ] that yields a total area of {{convert|41285|km2|sqmi|abbr=on}}. The Swiss population of approximately 7.7 million people concentrates mostly on the Plateau, where the largest cities are to be found. Among them are the two ] and economic centres of ] and ]. Switzerland is one of the ] in the world by ] ], with a nominal per capita GDP of $67,384.<ref name=imf2/> Zürich and Geneva have respectively been ranked as having the second and third highest quality of life in the world.<ref></ref>

The Swiss Confederation has a long history of ]—it has not been in a state of war internationally since 1815—and was one of the last countries to join the ]. Switzerland is home to many international organisations, including the ], the ], the ], the ] and the ]. On the European level it was a founder of the ] and is part of the ].

Switzerland comprises three main linguistic and cultural regions: German, French, and Italian, to which the ]-speaking valleys are added. The ] therefore do not form a ] in the sense of a common ethnic or linguistic identity. The strong sense of belonging to the country is founded on the common historical background, shared values (], ], ])<ref> euroculturemaster.org. Retrieved on 2009-07-30</ref> and ] symbolism.<ref> journals.cambridge.org. Retrieved on 2009-07-30</ref> The establishment of the Swiss Confederation is traditionally dated to 1 August 1291; ] is celebrated on the anniversary.

== Etymology ==
The English name ''Switzerland'' is a compound containing ''Switzer'', an obsolete term for the ], in use during the ] to ] centuries.<ref>] etymonline.com. Retrived on 2009-06-25</ref> The English adjective ''Swiss'' is a loan from French ''{{lang|fr|Suisse}}'', also in use since the 16th century. The name ''Switzer'' is from the ] ''{{lang|gsx|Schwiizer}}'', in origin an inhabitant of '']'' and its ], one of the Waldstätten cantons which formed the nucleus of the Old Swiss Confederacy. The toponym itself is first attested in ], as ] ''{{lang|goh|Suittes}}'', ultimately perhaps related to ''{{lang|goh|suedan}}'' "to burn", referring to the area of forest that was burned and cleared to build.<ref>Room, Adrian. ''Placenames of the World''. London: MacFarland and Co., Inc., 1997.</ref> The name was extended to the area dominated by the canton, and after the ] of 1499 gradually came to be used for the entire Confederation.<ref> newadvent.org. Retrieved on 2010-01-26</ref><ref>On Schwyzers, Swiss and Helvetians, Federal Department of Home Affairs . Retrieved on 2010-01-26</ref>

The ] name of the country, ''{{lang|gsx|Schwiiz}}'', is homophonous to that of the canton and the settlement, but distinguished by the use of the definite article (''{{lang|gsx|d'Schwiiz}}'' for the Confederation,<ref> schweizerdeutsch.ch. Retrieved on 20010-01-26</ref> but simply ''{{lang|gsx|Schwyz}}'' for the canton and the town).<ref> sz.ch. Retrieved on 2010-01-26</ref>
The ] name ''Confoederatio Helvetica'' was introduced at the ] in 1848, harking back to the Napoleonic ].
It is derived from the name of the '']'', a ] tribe living on the ] before the ]. The name of the ''Helvetii'' is attested epigraphically, in ] form, on a vessel dated to ca. 300 BC.<ref>Reproduction in R.C. De Marinis, ''Gli Etruschi a Nord del Po'', Mantova, 1986.</ref> They first appear in historiography in the 2nd century BC, in ].
'']'' appears as a ] of the Swiss confederacy in the 17th century, with a 1672 play by Johann Caspar Weissenbach.<ref>{{HDS|16440|Helvetia}}</ref>

== History ==
{{Main|History of Switzerland}}
Switzerland has existed as a state in its present form since the adoption of the Swiss Federal Constitution in 1848. The precursors of modern Switzerland established a protective alliance at the end of the 13th century, forming a loose confederation of states which persisted for centuries.

=== Early history ===
{{Main|Early history of Switzerland}}
{{See|History of the Alps|Alemannia|Upper Burgundy}}

The oldest traces of hominid existence in Switzerland date back about 150,000 years.<ref name = Early> swissworld.org. Retrieved on 2009-06-27</ref> The oldest known farming settlements in Switzerland, which were found at ], have been dated to around 5300 BC.<ref name = Early/>

] was the first Roman settlement on the Rhine and is nowadays the most important archaeological site in Switzerland<ref> swissinfo.ch</ref>]]

The earliest known cultural tribes of the area were members of the ] and ]s, named after the archaeological site of La Tène on the north side of ]. La Tène culture developed and flourished during the late ] from around ],<ref name = Early/> possibly under some influence from the ] and ] civilisations. One of the most important tribal groups in the Swiss region was the ]. In 58 BC, at the ], ]'s armies defeated the Helvetii.<ref name = Early/> In 15 BC, ], who was destined to be the second Roman emperor and his brother, ], conquered the Alps, integrating them into the ]. The area occupied by the ]—the namesakes of the later ''Confoederatio Helvetica''—first became part of Rome's ] province and then of its ] province, while the eastern portion of modern Switzerland was integrated into the ] of ].

In the ], from the ], the western extent of modern-day Switzerland was part of the territory of the ]. The ] settled the ] in the ] and the ] in the ], forming ]. Modern-day Switzerland was therefore then divided between the kingdoms of Alemannia and ].<ref name = Early/> The entire region became part of the expanding ] in the ], following ]'s victory over the ] at ] in 504 AD, and later Frankish domination of the Burgundians.<ref name = Nationsencyclopedia> Nationsencyclopedia.com. Retrieved on 2009-11-27</ref><ref name = Nationsonline> Nationsonline.org. Retrieved on 2009-11-27</ref>

Throughout the rest of the ], ] and ] centuries the Swiss regions continued under Frankish hegemony (] and ] dynasties). But after its extension under ], the Frankish empire was divided by the ] in 843.<ref name = Early/> The territories of nowadays Switzerland became divided into ] and ] until they were reunified under the ] around 1000 AD.<ref name = Early/>

By ], the Swiss plateau comprised the dominions of the houses of ], ], ] and ].<ref name = Early/> Some regions (], ], ], later known as ''Waldstätten'') were accorded the ] to grant the empire direct control over the mountain passes. When the Kyburg dynasty fell in 1264 AD, the Habsburgs under ] (Holy Roman Emperor in 1273) extended their territory to the eastern Swiss plateau.<ref name = Nationsencyclopedia/>

=== Old Swiss Confederacy ===
{{Main|Old Swiss Confederacy}}
{{See|Growth of the Old Swiss Confederacy|Reformation in Switzerland|Early Modern Switzerland}}
]}} {{legend0|#44aa44|]}} {{legend0|#ff66ff|]}} {{legend0|#ffff66|]}}]]

The ] was an alliance among the valley communities of the central Alps. The Confederacy facilitated management of common interests (]) and ensured peace on the important mountain trade routes. The ] agreed between the ] of ], ], and ] is considered the confederacy's founding document, even though similar alliances are likely to have existed decades earlier.<ref name="schwabe">Schwabe & Co.: ''Geschichte der Schweiz und der Schweizer'', Schwabe & Co 1986/2004. ISBN 3-7965-2067-7 {{de icon}}</ref><ref name = Brief> admin.ch, Retrieved on 2009-06-22</ref>

]
By 1353 the three original ] had joined with the cantons of ] and ] and the ], ] and ] city states to form the "Old Confederacy" of eight states that existed until the end of the ]. The expansion led to increased power and wealth for the federation.<ref name = Brief/> By 1460, the confederates controlled most of the territory south and west of the Rhine to the Alps and the Jura mountains, particularly after victories against the Habsburgs (], ]), over ] of ] during the 1470s, and the success of the ]. The Swiss victory in the ] against the ] of ] ] in 1499 amounted to ''de facto'' independence within the ].<ref name = Brief/>

The Old Swiss Confederacy had acquired a reputation of invincibility during these earlier wars, but ] suffered a setback in 1515 with the Swiss defeat in the ]. This ended the so-called "heroic" epoch of Swiss history.<ref name = Brief/> The success of ]'s ] in some cantons led to inter-cantonal religious conflicts in 1529 and 1531 (]). It was not until more than one hundred years after these internal wars that, in 1648, under the ], European countries recognised Switzerland's independence from the Holy Roman Empire and its ].<ref name = Nationsencyclopedia/><ref name = Nationsonline/>

During the ] period of Swiss history, the growing ] of the patriciate families combined with a financial crisis in the wake of the ] led to the ]. In the background to this struggle, the conflict between ] and ] cantons persisted, erupting in further violence at the ] in 1656 and 1712.<ref name = Brief/>

=== Napoleonic era ===
{{Main|Switzerland in the Napoleonic era|Helvetic Republic|Act of Mediation}}

] and a Republic.]]

In 1798, the ] government conquered Switzerland and imposed a new unified constitution.<ref name = Brief/> This centralised the government of the country and effectively abolished the cantons and ] and ] valley separated from Switzerland. The new ], known as the ], was highly unpopular. It had been imposed by a foreign invading army and destroyed centuries of tradition, making Switzerland nothing more than a French ]. The fierce French suppression of the ] in September of 1798 was an example of the oppressive presence of the ] and the local population's resistance to the occupation.

When war broke out between France and its rivals, ]n and ] forces invaded Switzerland. The Swiss refused to fight alongside the French in the name of the Helvetic Republic. In 1803 ] organised a meeting of the leading Swiss politicians from both sides in Paris. The result was the ] which largely restored Swiss autonomy and introduced a Confederation of 19 cantons.<ref name = Brief/> Henceforth much of Swiss politics would concern balancing the cantons' tradition of self-rule with the need for a central government.

In 1815 the ] fully re-established Swiss independence and the European powers agreed to permanently recognise Swiss neutrality.<ref name = Nationsencyclopedia/><ref name = Nationsonline/><ref name = Brief/> Swiss troops still served foreign governments until 1860 when they fought in the ]. The treaty also allowed Switzerland to increase its territory, with the admission of the cantons of ], ] and ]. Switzerland's borders have not changed since.<ref>{{HDS|7841|Swiss border}}</ref>

=== Federal state ===
{{Main|Restoration (Switzerland)|Switzerland as a federal state}}
] in Bern (1857). One of the three cantons presiding over the ] (former legislative and executive council), Bern was chosen as the federal capital in 1848, mainly because of its closeness to the French speaking area.<ref>{{HDS|10102|Bundesstadt}}</ref>]]
The ] of the power to the patriciate was only temporary. After a period of unrest with repeated violent clashes such as the ] of 1839, civil war broke out in 1847 when some of the Catholic cantons tried to set up a separate alliance (the '']'').<ref name = Brief/> The war lasted for less than a month, causing fewer than 100 casualties, most of which were through ]. However minor the Sonderbundskrieg seems to be when compared with other European riots and wars in the 19th century, it nevertheless had a major impact on both the psychology and the society of the Swiss and of Switzerland.

The war made all Swiss understand the need for unity and strength towards its European neighbours. Swiss people from all strata of society, whether Catholic, Protestant, or from the liberal or conservative current, realised that the cantons would profit more if their economic and religious interests were merged.

Thus, while the rest of Europe was ], the Swiss drew up an actual constitution which provided for a ], much of it inspired by the ]. This constitution provided for a central authority while leaving the cantons the right to self-government on local issues. Giving credit to those who favoured the power of the cantons (the Sonderbund Kantone), the national assembly was divided between an ] (the ], 2 representatives per canton) and a ] (the ], representatives elected from across the country). ] were made mandatory for any amendment of this constitution.<ref name = Nationsonline/>

A system of single weights and measures was introduced and in 1850 the ] became the Swiss ]. Article 11 of the constitution forbid sending troops to serve abroad, though the Swiss were still obliged to serve ] with Swiss Guards present at the ], marking the end of foreign service.

], connecting the southern canton of Ticino.]]
An important clause of the constitution was that it could be re-written completely if this was deemed necessary, thus enabling it to evolve as a whole rather than being modified one amendment at a time.<ref name=HistoiredelaSuisse>''Histoire de la Suisse'', Éditions Fragnière, Fribourg, Switzerland</ref>

This need soon proved itself when the rise in population and the ] that followed led to calls to modify the constitution accordingly. An early draft was rejected by the population in 1872 but modifications led to its acceptance in 1874.<ref name = Brief/> It introduced the facultative referendum for laws at the federal level. It also established federal responsibility for defence, trade, and legal matters.

In 1891, the constitution was revised with unusually strong elements of ], which remain unique even today.<ref name = Brief/>

=== Modern history ===
{{Main|Switzerland during the World Wars|Modern history of Switzerland}}
] (1891).]]
Switzerland was not invaded during either of the ]s. During ], Switzerland was home to Vladimir Illych Ulyanov (]) and he remained there until 1917.<ref> swissinfo.ch. Retrieved on 2010-01-25</ref> Swiss neutrality was seriously questioned by the ] in 1917, but it was short-lived. In 1920, Switzerland joined the ], which was based in ], on the condition that it was exempt from any military requirements.

], detailed invasion plans were drawn up by the Germans,<ref>''Let's Swallow Switzerland'' by Klaus Urner (Lexington Books, 2002).</ref> but Switzerland was never attacked.<ref name = Brief/> Switzerland was able to remain independent through a combination of military deterrence, concessions to Germany, and good fortune as larger events during the war delayed an invasion.<ref name = Nationsonline/><ref name = Stonebooks> stonebooks.com. Retrieved on 2009-12-02</ref> Under General ], a massive mobilisation of militia forces was ordered. The Swiss military strategy was changed from one of static defence at the borders to protect the economic heartland, to one of organised long-term attrition and withdrawal to strong, well-stockpiled positions high in the Alps known as the ]. Switzerland was an important base for espionage by both sides in the conflict and often mediated communications between the Axis and Allied powers.<ref name = Stonebooks/>

] during World War II]]
Switzerland's trade was blockaded by both the ] and by the ]. Economic cooperation and extension of credit to the ] varied according to the perceived likelihood of invasion and the availability of other trading partners. Concessions reached a peak after a crucial rail link through ] was severed in 1942, leaving Switzerland completely surrounded by the Axis. Over the course of the war, Switzerland interned over 300,000 refugees<ref>{{HDS|10374|Asylum}}</ref> and the ], based in Geneva, played an important part during the conflict. Strict immigration and asylum policies as well as the financial relationships with Nazi Germany raised controversy.<ref>, page 117.</ref> During the war, the Swiss Air Force engaged aircraft of both sides, shooting down 11 intruding ] planes in May and June 1940, then forcing down other intruders after a change of policy following threats from Germany. The fact that the Swiss Air Force consistently beat the ] was a recurring embarrassment for ] in World War Two. The Allies acknowledged this, but the Allied Air Forces also many times intruded Swiss Air Space and made raids on several cities during the War. Over 100 Allied bombers and their crews were interned during the war. During 1944-45, Allied bombers mistakenly bombed a few places in Switzerland, among which were the cities of ], ] and ].<ref name = Stonebooks/>

]
Women were granted the ] in the first Swiss cantons in 1959, at the federal level in 1971<ref name = Brief/><ref name = FCO> UK Foreign and Commonwealth Office, Retrieved on 2009-11-25</ref> and, after resistance, in the last canton ] in 1990. After ] at the federal level, women quickly rose in political significance, with the first woman on the seven member ] executive being ], who served from 1984–1989,<ref name = Brief/> and the first female president being ] in 1999.

Switzerland joined the ] in 1963.<ref name = Nationsonline/> In 1979 areas from the canton of ] attained independence from the Bernese, forming the new ]. On 18 April 1999 the Swiss population and the cantons voted in favour of a completely revised ].<ref name = Brief/>

] of 2002]]
In 2002 Switzerland became a full member of the ], leaving the ] as the last widely recognised state without full UN membership. Switzerland is a founding member of the ], but is not a member of the ]. An application for membership in the ] was sent in May 1992, but not advanced since the EEA was rejected in December 1992<ref name = Brief/> when Switzerland was the only country to launch a referendum on the EEA. There have since been several referenda on the EU issue; due to a mixed reaction from the population the membership application has been frozen. Nonetheless, Swiss law is gradually being adjusted to conform with that of the EU and the government has signed a number of ] with the European Union. Switzerland, together with ], has been completely surrounded by the EU since Austria's membership in 1995. On 5 June 2005, Swiss voters agreed by a 55% majority to join the ], a result that was regarded by EU commentators as a sign of support by Switzerland, a country that is traditionally perceived as independent and reluctant to enter supranational bodies.<ref name = Nationsonline/>

== Politics ==
<!--Please add new information into relevant articles of the series-->
{{Main|Politics of Switzerland}}

] in 2010.<ref group = note>As shown in this image, the current members of the council are (as of November 2009, from left to right): ], ], ] (Vice-President of the Confederation), ], ] (President of the Confederation), ], ] <small>(also pictured: Federal Chancellor ])</small></ref>]]

The ] adopted in 1848 is the legal foundation of the modern federal state, the second oldest in the world.<ref name = Politics> admin.ch, Retrieved on 2009-06-22</ref> A new Constitution was adopted in 1999, but did not introduce notable changes to the federal structure. It outlines basic and political rights of individuals and citizen participation in public affairs, divides the powers between the Confederation and the cantons and defines federal jurisdiction and authority. There are three main governing bodies on the federal level:<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.eda.admin.ch/eda/en/home/reps/eur/vgbr/infoch/chpoli.html |title=Political System |publisher=Federal Department of Foreign Affairs}}</ref> the ] parliament (legislative), the ] (executive) and the ] (judicial).

] in ] is the name of the building in which the ] (federal parliament) and the ] (executive) are housed.
]]

The ] consists of two houses: the ] which has 46 representatives (two from each canton and one from each half-canton) who are elected under a system determined by each canton, and the ], which consists of 200 members who are elected under a system of ], depending on the population of each canton. Members of both houses serve for 4 years. When both houses are in joint session, they are known collectively as the ]. Through ]s, citizens may challenge any law passed by parliament and through ]s, introduce amendments to the federal constitution, thus making Switzerland a ].<ref name = Politics/>

The ] constitutes the federal ], directs the ] and serves as collective ]. It is a collegial body of seven members, elected for a four-year mandate by the Federal Assembly which also exercises ] over the Council. The ] is elected by the Assembly from among the seven members, traditionally in rotation and for a one-year term; the President chairs the government and assumes representative functions. However, the president is a '']'' with no additional powers, and remains the head of a department within the administration.<ref name = Politics/>

The Swiss government has been a coalition of the four major political parties since 1959, each party having a number of seats that roughly reflects its share of electorate and representation in the federal parliament.
The classic distribution of 2 CVP/PDC, 2 SPS/PSS, 2 FDP/PRD and 1 SVP/UDC as it stood from 1959 to 2003 was known as the "]".
In the ] the seven seats in the Federal Council were distributed as follows:
:2 ],
:2 ],
:2 ],<ref group=note>The SVP/UDC has suffered a split since the election, with both their councillors defecting to the ] (BDP/PBD). As of 2009, with the election of ], the SVP/UDC and the BDP/PBD hold one seat each.</ref>
:1 ].

The function of the ] is to hear appeals against rulings of cantonal or federal courts. The judges are elected by the Federal Assembly for six-year terms.<ref> ch.ch. Retrived on 2009-12-15</ref>

=== Direct democracy ===
{{Main|Voting in Switzerland}}
] is an old form of ]. It is still practised in two cantons.<ref name="Cantons"> ch.ch. Retrieved on 2009-12-15</ref>]]
Swiss citizens are subject to three legal jurisdictions: the commune, canton and federal levels. The 1848 federal constitution defines a system of ] (sometimes called ''half-direct'' or representative direct democracy since it is aided by the more commonplace institutions of a ]). The instruments of Swiss direct democracy at the federal level, known as civic rights (''Volksrechte'', ''droits civiques''), include the right to submit a ''constitutional initiative'' and a ''referendum'', both of which may overturn parliamentary decisions.<ref name = Politics/><ref> telegraph.co.uk. Retrieved on 2009-12-04</ref>

By calling a federal ''referendum'' a group of citizens may challenge a law that has been passed by Parliament, if they can gather 50,000 signatures against the law within 100 days. If so, a national vote is scheduled where voters decide by a ] whether to accept or reject the law. Eight cantons together can also call a referendum on a federal law.<ref name = Politics/>

Similarly, the federal ''constitutional initiative'' allows citizens to put a ] to a national vote, if they can get 100,000 voters to sign the proposed amendment within 18 months.<ref group=note>Since 1999, an initiative can also be in the form of a general proposal to be elaborated by Parliament, but because it is considered less attractive for various reasons, this form of initiative has yet to find any use.</ref> Parliament can supplement the proposed amendment with a counter-proposal, with voters having to indicate a preference on the ballot in case both proposals are accepted. Constitutional amendments, whether introduced by initiative or in Parliament, must be accepted by a ] of both the national popular vote and a majority of the cantonal popular votes.<ref group=note>That is a majority of 23 cantonal votes, because the result of the popular vote in the six traditional ] each counts as half the vote of one of the other cantons.</ref><ref>Tremblay; Lecours; et al. (2004) Mapping the Political Landscape. Toronto: Nelson.</ref><ref>Turner; Barry (2001). The Statement's Yearbook. New York: MacMillan Press ltd.</ref><ref>Banks, Arthur (2006). Political Handbook of The World 2005-2006. Washington: Cq Press.</ref>

=== Cantons ===
{{Main|Cantons of Switzerland}}

The Swiss Confederation consists of 26 cantons:<ref name = Politics/>

{{Switzerland Cantons Labelled Map|float=left}}
{| class="toccolours" style="float:auto; text-align:right; font-size:90%; width:40%; background:#f5f5f5;"
|- style="text-align:center; background:lavender; font-weight:bold;"
! !! Canton !! Capital !! !! Canton !! Capital
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
|| ]|| style="background:#f0f0f0; text-align:left;"|''']''' || align=left | ] || style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"| ]|| style="text-align:left; background:#f0f0f0;"|*''']''' || align=left| ]
|-
!style="background:#f0f0f0;" colspan="6"|
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
|| ]|| style="background:#f0f0f0; text-align:left;"|*''']''' || align=left | ] || style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"| ]|| style="text-align:left; background:#f0f0f0;"|*''']''' || align=left| ]
|-
!style="background:#f0f0f0;" colspan="6"|
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
|| ]|| style="background:#f0f0f0; text-align:left;"|*''']''' || align=left| ] || style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"| ]|| style="text-align:left; background:#f0f0f0;"|''']''' || align=left| ]
|-
!style="background:#f0f0f0;" colspan="6"|
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
|| ]|| style="text-align:left; background:#f0f0f0;"|*''']''' || align=left| ] || style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"| ]|| style="text-align:left; background:#f0f0f0;"|''']''' || align=left| ]
|-
!style="background:#f0f0f0;" colspan="6"|
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
|| ]|| style="text-align:left; background:#f0f0f0;"|*''']''' || align=left| ] || style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"| ]|| style="text-align:left; background:#f0f0f0;"|''']''' || align=left| ]
|-
!style="background:#f0f0f0;" colspan="6"|
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
|| ]|| style="text-align:left; background:#f0f0f0;"|''']''' || align=left| ] || style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"| ]|| style="text-align:left; background:#f0f0f0;"|''']''' || align=left| ]
|-
!style="background:#f0f0f0;" colspan="6"|
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
|| ]|| style="text-align:left; background:#f0f0f0;"|''']''' || align=left| ]|| style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"| ]|| style="text-align:left; background:#f0f0f0;"|''']''' || align=left| ]
|-
!style="background:#f0f0f0;" colspan="6"|
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
|| ]|| style="text-align:left; background:#f0f0f0;"|''']''' || align=left| ] || style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"| ]|| style="text-align:left; background:#f0f0f0;"|''']''' || align=left| ]
|-
!style="background:#f0f0f0;" colspan="6"|
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
|| ]|| style="text-align:left; background:#f0f0f0;"|''']''' || align=left| ] || style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"| ]|| style="text-align:left; background:#f0f0f0;"|''']''' || align=left| ]
|-
!style="background:#f0f0f0;" colspan="6"|
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
|| ]|| style="text-align:left; background:#f0f0f0;"|''']''' || align=left| ] || style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"| ]|| style="text-align:left; background:#f0f0f0;"|''']''' || align=left| ]
|-
!style="background:#f0f0f0;" colspan="6"|
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
|| ]|| style="text-align:left; background:#f0f0f0;"|''']''' || align=left| ] || style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"| ]|| style="text-align:left; background:#f0f0f0;"|''']''' || align=left| ]
|-
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|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
|| ]|| style="text-align:left; background:#f0f0f0;"|''']''' || align=left| ] || style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"| ]|| style="text-align:left; background:#f0f0f0;"|''']''' || align=left| ]
|-
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|-
| style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"| ]|| style="text-align:left; background:#f0f0f0;"|''']''' || align=left| ] || style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"| ]|| style="text-align:left; background:#f0f0f0;"|''']''' || align=left| ]
|}
<nowiki>*</nowiki><small>These ] are represented by one councillor (instead of two) in the ].</small>

The cantons have a permanent constitutional status and, in comparison with the situation in other countries, a high degree of independence. Under the Federal Constitution, all 26 cantons are equal in status. Each canton has its own constitution, and its own parliament, government and courts.<ref name="Cantons"/> However, there are considerable differences between the individual cantons, most particularly in terms of population and geographical area. Their populations vary between 15,000 (Appenzell Innerrhoden) and 1,253,500 (Zürich), and their area between {{convert|37|km2|sqmi|abbr=on}} (Basel-Stadt) and {{convert|7105|km2|sqmi|abbr=on}} (Graubünden). The Cantons comprise a total of 2,889 ]. Within Switzerland there are two ]s: ] belongs to Germany, ] belongs to Italy.<ref> enclaves.webs.com. Retrieved on 2009-12-15</ref>

In a referendum held in the ] of ] on 11 May 1919 over 80% of those voting supported a proposal that the state should join the Swiss Confederation. However, this was prevented by the opposition of the ], the ], ] and non German-speaking Swiss.<ref> austria.org. Retrieved on 2009-12-15</ref><ref></ref>

=== Foreign relations and international institutions ===
{{Main|Foreign relations of Switzerland}}
] in Geneva]]

Traditionally, Switzerland avoids alliances that might entail military, political, or direct economic action and had been neutral since the end of its ] in 1515. Its policy of neutrality has been internationally recognised at the ] in 1815.<ref name = Neutrality> swissworld.org, Retrieved on 2009-06-23</ref><ref name="nationsencyclopedia.com">{{cite web|url=http://www.nationsencyclopedia.com/economies/Europe/Switzerland-COUNTRY-HISTORY-AND-ECONOMIC-DEVELOPMENT.html|title=Switzerland - Country history and economic development|work=nationsencyclopedia.com|accessdate=12 December 2009}}</ref> Only in 2002 did Switzerland become a full member of the ]<ref name = Neutrality/> but it was the first state to join it by referendum. Switzerland maintains diplomatic relations with almost all countries and historically has served as an intermediary between other states.<ref name = Neutrality/> Switzerland is not a member of the ]; the Swiss people have consistently rejected membership since the early 1990s.<ref name = Neutrality/>

]<ref> nobelprize.org. Retrieved on 2009-12-02</ref>]]

An unusual number of international institutions have their seats in Switzerland, in part because of its policy of neutrality. ] is the birth place of the ] and hosts the ]. The ] has the official headquarters in the city. Even though Switzerland is one of the most recent countries to have joined the United Nations, Geneva is the second biggest centre for the ] after New York, and Switzerland was a founding member of the ]. Apart from the United Nations headquarters, the Swiss Confederation is host to many UN agencies, like the World Health Organization (]), the International Telecommunication Union (]) and about 200 other international organisations.<ref name = Neutrality/> The ] foundation is based in Geneva. It is best known for its annual meeting in ] which brings together top international business and political leaders to discuss important issues facing the world, including health and the environment.

Furthermore, many sport federations and organisations are located throughout the country, such as the ]. The most important ones are probably the ], in ], the ] (International Federation of Association Football), in ], and the ] (Union of European Football Association), in ].<ref> if-sportsguide.ch. Retrieved on 2010-01-25</ref>

=== Swiss Armed Forces ===
{{Main|Military of Switzerland}}
] in flight over Switzerland. Pilots have to deal with the Swiss mountains.]]
The ], including the Land Forces and the ], are ]: professional soldiers constitute only about 5 percent of the military personnel, and all the rest are conscript citizens aged from 20 to 34 (in special cases up to 50) years. Being a ] country, Switzerland has no navy, however on lakes bordering neighbouring countries armed military patrol boats are used. Swiss citizens are prohibited from serving in foreign armies, with the exception of the ]s of the ].

The structure of the Swiss militia system stipulates that the soldiers keep their own personal equipment, including all personal weapons, at home. Some organisations and political parties find this practice controversial and dangerous.<ref> has been launched on 4 September 2007, and is supported by ], the ] and the ] as well as other organisations which are listed here .</ref> ] concerns all male Swiss citizens; women can serve voluntarily. They usually receive the marching order at the age of 19 for military conscription. About two thirds of the young Swiss are found suited for service; for those found unsuited, an alternative service exists.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.nzz.ch/nachrichten/schweiz/zwei_drittel_der_rekruten_diensttauglich_1.687233.html |title=Zwei Drittel der Rekruten diensttauglich (Schweiz, NZZ Online) |work= |accessdate=23 February 2009}}</ref> Annually, approximately 20,000 persons are trained in boot camp for a duration from 18 to 21 weeks. The reform "Army XXI" was adopted by popular vote in 2003, it replaced the previous model "Army 95", reducing the effectives from 400,000 to about 200,000. Of those, 120,000 are active and 80,000 are reserve units.<ref> (German)</ref>

] armoured vehicles in a military parade]]
Overall, three general mobilisations have been declared to ensure the integrity and neutrality of Switzerland. The first one was held on the occasion of the ] of 1870-71. The second one was decided in response to the outbreak of the ] in August 1914. The third mobilisation of the army took place on September 1939 in response to the German attack on Poland; ] was elected as the General-in-Chief.

Because of neutrality, the army cannot take part in armed conflicts in other countries, but is part of some peacekeeping missions around the world. Since 2000 the armed forces department has also maintained the ] intelligence gathering system to monitor satellite communications.

Following the end of the ] there have been a number of attempts to curb military activity or even abolish the armed forces altogether (see ]). A notable referendum on the subject was held on the 26 November 1989. Although it was defeated, over one third of the people voted in favour of it.<ref> admin.ch. Retrieved on 2010-01-25</ref><ref>''L'évolution de la politique de sécurité de la Suisse'' ("Evolution of Swiss Security Policies") by Manfred Rôsch </ref> A similar referendum, called for before, but held shortly after, the ], was defeated by over 78% of voters.<ref> admin.ch. Retrived on 2009-12-07</ref>

== Geography and climate==
{{Main|Geography of Switzerland}}
{{See also|Swiss Alps|Swisstopo|List of mountains in Switzerland|List of lakes of Switzerland|List of rivers of Switzerland|List of mountain passes in Switzerland}}

]

Extending across the north and south side of the ], Switzerland encompasses a great diversity of landscapes and climates on a limited area of {{convert|41285|km2|sqmi}}.<ref name = Geo> swissworld.org, Retrived on 2009-06-23</ref> The population is about 7.7&nbsp;million, resulting in an average ] of around 190 people per square kilometre (485/sq&nbsp;mi).<ref name = Geo/><ref name="Landscape">{{cite web|url=http://www.eda.admin.ch/eda/en/home/reps/ocea/vaus/infoch/chgeog.html|title=Landscape and Living Space |date=2007-07-31|work=Federal Department of Foreign Affairs|publisher=Federal Administration admin.ch|accessdate=2009-06-25}}</ref><ref name="maps">A zoomable map of Switzerland is available at either or ; a zoomable satellite picture is at .</ref> The more mountainous southern half of the country is far more sparsely populated than the northern half.<ref name = Geo/>

{{Multiple image
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| image3 = Central Switzerland.jpg
| caption3 = Contrasted landscapes between the 4,000 metres of the high Alps (] on the left), the ] region and the plateau at ]
}}

Switzerland contains three basic topographical areas: the ] on the south, the ] or middleland, and the ] on the north.<ref name = Geo/> The Alps are a high mountain range running across the central-south of the country, comprising about 60% of the country's total area. Among the high valleys of the Swiss Alps countless glaciers are found, totalling an area of 3,000 square kilometres.<ref> cp-pc.ca. Retrieved on 2009-12-14</ref> From these the headwaters of several major European rivers such as the ], ], ], ], and ] flow finally into the largest Swiss lakes such as ] (Lac Léman), ], ], and ].<ref name = Geo/>

{{Multiple image
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| image1 = Aletschhorn from Konkordiaplatz.jpg
| caption1 =
| image2 = Joux.jpg
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| image3 = Lago di Lugano3.jpg
| caption3 = Contrasted climates between the most glaciated area in western Eurasia (]),<ref> unesco.org</ref> the cold temperate Jura (]) and the southern canton of Ticino (])
}}

About a hundred of Switzerland's mountain peaks are close to or higher than 4,000 metres.<ref> cp-pc.ca. Retrieved on 2009-12-14</ref> At {{convert|4634|m|ft|0|abbr=on|disp=s}}, the ] is the highest, although the ] ({{convert|4478|m|ft|0|abbr=on|disp=s}}) is probably more famous. Both are located within the ] in the canton of ]. The section of the ] above the deep glacial ] valley, containing 72 waterfalls, is also well known for the ]({{convert|4158|m|ft|0|abbr=on|disp=s}}) and ], and the many picturesque valleys in the region. In the southeast the long ] Valley, encompassing the ] area in canton ], is also well known; the highest peak in the neighbouring ] is ] ({{convert|4049|m|ft|0|abbr=on|disp=s}}).<ref name="geography">{{cite book | last = Herbermann | first = Charles George | authorlink = | coauthors = | title = The Catholic Encyclopedia | publisher = Encyclopedia Press |year=1913 | location = | page = 358 | url = | doi = | id = | isbn = }}</ref>

The more populous northern part of the country, comprising about 30% of the country's total area, is called the Middle Land. It has greater open and hilly landscapes, partly forested, partly open pastures, usually with grazing herds, or vegetables and fruit fields, but it is still hilly. There are large lakes found here and the biggest Swiss cities are in this area of the country.<ref name="geography"/> The largest lake is ] (also called Lac Léman in French), in western Switzerland. The ] is both the main input and output of Lake Geneva.

The Swiss ] is generally ], but can vary greatly between the localities,<ref name = Climate> about.ch, Retrived on 2009-06-23</ref><ref name = BBCclimate> bbc.co.uk, Retrieved on 2009-11-20</ref> from glacial conditions on the mountaintops to the often pleasant near ] at Switzerland's southern tip. Summers tend to be warm and humid at times with periodic rainfall so they are ideal for pastures and grazing. The winters in the mountains alternate with sun and ], while the lower lands tend to be more cloudy and foggy in winter.<ref name = BBCclimate/> A weather phenomenon known as the ]<ref name = Climate/> can occur at all times of the year, even in winter, and is characterised by a relatively warm wind, bringing air of very low relative humidity. It blows mostly on the northern side of the Alps where it can trigger dangerous avalanches.<ref name = BBCclimate/> The driest conditions persist in the southern valleys of the ]<ref name = Climate/> above which valuable ] is harvested and many wine grapes are grown, Graubünden also tends to be drier in climate<ref name = Climate/> and slightly colder, yet with plentiful snow in winter. The wettest conditions persist in the high Alps and in the ] canton which has much sun yet heavy bursts of rain from time to time.<ref name = Climate/> The eastern part tends to be colder than western Switzerland, yet anywhere up high in the mountains can experience a cold spell at any time of the year. Precipitation tends to be spread moderately throughout the year, with minor variations across the seasons depending on locale. Autumn frequently tends to be the driest season, yet the weather patterns in Switzerland can be highly variable from year to year, and difficult to predict.

Switzerland's ecosystems can be particularly fragile, because of the many delicate valleys separated by high mountains, often forming unique ecologies. The mountainous regions themselves are also vulnerable, with a rich range of plants not found at other altitudes, and experience some pressure from visitors and grazing. The climatic, geological and topographical conditions of the alpine region make for a very fragile ecosystem that is particularly sensitive to ].<ref>{{Dead link|date=January 2010}} Federal Department of Foreign Affairs FDFA. Retrived on 2009-12-02</ref><ref> swissworld.org. Retrieved on 2010-01-14.</ref>

== Economy ==
{{Main|Economy of Switzerland}}
{{See also|Banking in Switzerland|Taxation in Switzerland}}

swissworld.org. Retrieved on 2009-07-20</ref> (the ], worn on the moon during the ] missions)]]

Switzerland has a stable, modern and one of the most ] economies in the world. It has the 2nd highest European rating after ] in the ] 2008, while also providing large coverage through public services. The nominal per capita ] is higher than those of the larger western European economies and Japan, ranking 6th behind Luxembourg, Norway, Qatar, Iceland and Ireland. The ] remains one of the world's strongest currencies with the lowest inflation rate.<ref> cp-pc.ca. Retrieved on 2009-12-14</ref>

] Area, home to 1.5 million inhabitants and 150,000 companies, has taken top position in some life quality surveys.<ref></ref>]]
]. Tourism constitutes an important revenue for the less industrialised alpine regions]]

If adjusted for ], Switzerland ranks 15th in the world for GDP per capita.<ref></ref> The World Economic Forum's ] currently ranks Switzerland's economy as the most competitive in the world.<ref></ref> For much of the ], Switzerland was the wealthiest country in Europe by a considerable margin.<ref name='westeuro'>{{cite book | last = Taylor & Francis Group | first = | authorlink = | coauthors = | title = Western Europe | publisher = Routledge |year=2002 | location = | pages = 645–646 | url = | doi = | id = | isbn = 1857431529 }}</ref> In 2005 the ] in Switzerland was an estimated 95,000 ], the equivalent of roughly 90,000 USD (as of December 2009) in nominal terms.

Switzerland is home to several large multinational corporations. The largest Swiss companies by revenue are ], ], ], ], ] and ].<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.swissinfo.ch/eng/business/detail/Six_Swiss_companies_make_European_Top_100.html?siteSect=161&sid=7174196&cKey=1161172317000|title=Six Swiss companies make European Top 100|date=18 October 2008|publisher=swissinfo.ch|accessdate=22 July 2008}}</ref> Also notable are ], ], ], ], and ]. Switzerland is ranked as having one of the most powerful economies in the world.<ref name='westeuro'/>

], ], ]s, ]s, ], ] and ], ], and ]s are important industries in Switzerland. The largest exported goods are chemicals (34% of exported goods), machines/electronics (20.9%), and precision instruments/watches (16.9%).<ref name="yearbook2008"/> Exported services amount to a third of exported goods.<ref name="yearbook2008">Swiss Statistical Yearbook 2008 by ]</ref>

Around 3.8 million people work in Switzerland. Switzerland has a more flexible ] than neighboring countries and the ] rate is very low. ] rate increased from a low of 1.7% in June 2000 to a peak of 4.4%, as of December 2009.<ref></ref> Population growth from net immigration is quite high, at 0.52% of population in 2004.<ref name="yearbook2008"/> ] is 21.8% as of 2004,<ref name="yearbook2008"/> about the same as in Australia. ] is the world's 17th highest, at 27.44 ]s in 2006.

Switzerland has an overwhelmingly private sector economy and low tax rates by Western standards; ] of ]. Switzerland is an easy place to do business; Switzerland ranks 16th of 178 countries in the ]. The slow growth Switzerland experienced in the 1990s and the early 2000s has brought greater support for economic reforms and harmonisation with the European Union.<ref name="economicsurvey2007"> (326 ]), ]</ref><ref> (45 ])</ref> According to ], only about 37% of residents own their own homes, one of the lowest rates of ] in Europe. Housing and food price levels were 171% and 145% of the ] index in 2007, compared to 113% and 104% in Germany.<ref name="yearbook2008"/> Agricultural protectionism—a rare exception to Switzerland's free trade policies—has contributed to high food prices. Product market liberalisation is lagging behind many ] according to the ].<ref name="economicsurvey2007"/> Nevertheless, domestic ] is one of the best in the world.<ref>{{Dead link|date=January 2010}} (68 ])</ref><ref> goliath.ecnext.com. Retrieved on 2010-01-14.</ref><ref> reuters.com. Retrieved on 2010-01-14.</ref> Apart from agriculture, economic and trade barriers between the European Union and Switzerland are minimal and Switzerland has free trade agreements worldwide. Switzerland is a member of the ] (EFTA).

=== Education, science, and technology ===
<!--Please consider adding other information into relevant articles of the series-->
{{Main|Education in Switzerland|Science and technology in Switzerland}}
] (maths)<br />] (glaciology)<br />] (aeronautics)<br />] (physics)]]

Education in Switzerland is very diverse because the ] delegates the authority for the school system to the ].<ref name = Education> swissworld.org, Retrieved on 2009-06-23</ref> There are both public and private schools, including many private international schools. The minimum age for primary school is about six years in all cantons, but most cantons provide a free "children's school" starting at four or five years old.<ref name = Education/> Primary school continues until grade four or five, depending on the school. Traditionally, the first foreign language in school was always one of the other national languages, although recently (2000) English was introduced first in a few cantons.<ref name = Education/> At the end of primary school (or at the beginning of secondary school), pupils are separated according to their capacities in several (often three) sections. The fastest learners are taught advanced classes to be prepared for further studies and the ],<ref name = Education/> while students who assimilate a little bit more slowly receive an education more adapted to their needs.

],<ref group = note>In 2008, ETH Zurich was ranked 15th in the field ''Natural Sciences and Mathematics'' by the Shanghai Ranking and in 2007 it was ranked 27th in all fields.</ref> university in Switzerland, where Albert Einstein studied.]]
There are ], ten of which are maintained at cantonal level and usually offer a range of non-technical subjects. The ] was founded in 1460 in ] (with a faculty of medicine) and has a tradition of chemical and medical research in Switzerland. The biggest university in Switzerland is the ] with nearly 25,000 students. The two institutes sponsored by the federal government are the ] in ] (founded 1855) and the ] in ] (founded 1969 as such, formerly an institute associated with the University of Lausanne) which both have an excellent international reputation. In 2008, the ETH Zurich was ranked 15th in the field ''Natural Sciences and Mathematics'' by the ]<ref></ref> and the EPFL in Lausanne was ranked 18th in the field ''Engineering/Technology and Computer Sciences'' by the same ranking.
In addition there are various ]. In business and management studies, University of St. Gallen (HSG) and ] (IMD) are the leaders. Switzerland has the second highest rate of foreign students in tertiary education, after Australia.<ref> by the ]: Percentage of foreign students in tertiary education.</ref>

Many ]s were awarded to Swiss scientists, for example to the world-famous physicist ] in the field of physics who developed his ] while working in Bern. More recently ], ], ], ], ] and ] received Nobel prizes in the sciences. In total, 113 Nobel Prize winners stand in relation to Switzerland<ref>Nobel prizes in non-science categories included.</ref> and the ] was awarded 9 times to organisations residing in Switzerland.<ref name="urlMueller Science - Spezialitaeten: Schweizer Nobelpreisträger">{{cite web |url=http://www.muellerscience.com/SPEZIALITAETEN/Schweiz/SchweizerNobelpreistraeger.htm |title=Mueller Science - Spezialitaeten: Schweizer Nobelpreisträger |work= |accessdate=31 July 2008}}</ref>

] tunnel, in the world's largest laboratory, ]]]

] hosts the world's largest ], the ],<ref></ref> dedicated to ] research. Another important research center is the ]. Notable inventions include the ] (LSD), the ] (Nobel prize) or the very popular ]. Some technologies enabled the exploration of ] such as the pressurized balloon of ] and the ] which permitted ] to reach the deepest point of the world's oceans.

Switzerland Space Agency, the ], has been involved in various space technologies and programs. In addition it was one of the 10 founders of ] in 1975 and is the seventh largest contributor to the ESA budget. In the private sector, several companies are implicated in the space industry such as ]<ref></ref> or Maxon Motors<ref></ref> who provide spacecraft structures.

=== Switzerland and the European Union ===
{{Main|Switzerland and the European Union}}
Switzerland voted against membership in the ] in a referendum in December 1992 and has since maintained and developed its relationships with the European Union (EU) and European countries through bilateral agreements. In March 2001, the Swiss people refused in a popular vote to start accession negotiations with the EU.<ref>{{cite web
| title = The contexts of Swiss opposition to Europe
| author = Prof Clive Church
| publisher = Sussex European Institute
| year = 2003
| month = may
| url = http://www.sussex.ac.uk/sei/documents/wp64.pdf
| format = PDF, 124 ]
| page =12
| accessdate = 13 June 2008}}</ref> In recent years, the Swiss have brought their economic practices largely into conformity with those of the EU in many ways, in an effort to enhance their international competitiveness. The economy has been growing most recently at around 3% per year. ] is a long-term objective of some in the Swiss government, but there is considerable popular sentiment against this supported by the conservative ] party. The western French-speaking areas and the urban regions of the rest of the country tend to be more pro-EU, however with far from any significant share of the population.<ref>{{cite web
|url=http://www.bfs.admin.ch/bfs/portal/de/index/themen/17/03/blank/key/2001/01.Document.22675.pdf
| title=""Volksinitiative «Ja zu Europa!»'' (Initiative «Yes to Europe!»)
|date= 13 February 2003
|format= PDF, 1.1 ]
|publisher= BFS/OFS/UST
|language= German
|accessdate=15 June 2008}}</ref><ref>{{cite web
|url=http://www.bfs.admin.ch/bfs/portal/de/index/themen/17/03/blank/key/2001/01.Document.85488.xls
| title=""Volksinitiative "Ja zu Europa!", nach Kantonen.'' (Initiative "Yes to Europe!" by Canton).
|date= 16 January 2003
|format= XLS
|publisher= BFS/OFS/UST
|language= German
|accessdate=15 June 2008}}</ref>

The government has established an Integration Office under the ] and the ]. To minimise the negative consequences of Switzerland's isolation from the rest of Europe, Bern and Brussels signed seven bilateral agreements to further liberalise trade ties. These agreements were signed in 1999 and took effect in 2001. This first series of bilateral agreements included the free movement of persons. A second series covering nine areas was signed in 2004 and has since been ratified. The second series includes the ] and the ]. They continue to discuss further areas for cooperation. In 2006, Switzerland approved a billion francs supportive investment in the poorer ]an countries in support of cooperation and positive ties to the EU as a whole. A further referendum will be needed to approve 300 million francs to support Romania and Bulgaria and their recent admission. The Swiss have also been under EU and sometimes international pressure to reduce banking secrecy and to raise tax rates to parity with the EU. Preparatory discussions are being opened in four new areas: opening up the electricity market, participation in the European GNSS project ], cooperating with the European centre for disease prevention and recognising certificates of origin for food products.<ref> europa.admin.ch. Retrieved on 2010-01-25</ref>

On 27 November 2008, the interior and justice ministers of European Union in ] announced Switzerland's accession to the Schengen passport-free zone from 12 December 2008. The land ] will remain in place only for goods movements, but should not run controls on people, though people entering the country had their ] checked until 29 March 2009 if they originated from a Schengen nation.<ref> euronews.net. Retrieved on 2010-01-25</ref>

=== Energy, infrastructure, and environment ===
{{See also|Energy in Switzerland|Transport in Switzerland|Waste management in Switzerland|Environment of Switzerland}}

] is one of the four in Switzerland.]]
] generated in Switzerland is 56% from ] and 39% from ], with 5% of the electricity generated from conventional power sources resulting in a nearly CO<sub>2</sub>-free electricity-generating network. On 18 May 2003, two ] initiatives were turned down: ''Moratorium Plus'', aimed at forbidding the building of new ] (41.6% supported and 58.4% opposed),<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.admin.ch/ch/d/pore/va/20030518/det502.html |title=Vote No. 502 – Summary |date=18 May 2003 |language=German}}</ref> and Electricity Without Nuclear (33.7% supported and 66.3% opposed).<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.admin.ch/ch/d/pore/va/20030518/det501.html |title=Vote No. 501 – Summary |date=18 May 2003 |language=German}}</ref> The former ten-year moratorium on the construction of new nuclear power plants was the result of a ] voted on in 1990 which had passed with 54.5% Yes vs. 45.5% No votes. A new nuclear plant in the ] is presently planned. The Swiss Federal Office of Energy (SFOE) is the office responsible for all questions relating to energy supply and energy use within the ] (DETEC). The agency is supporting the ] initiative to cut the nation's energy use by more than half by the year 2050.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.bfe.admin.ch/forschungnetze/01223/index.html?lang=en |title=Federal government energy research|date=16 January 2008}}</ref>

], third longest railway tunnel in the world, under the old ]. It is the first completed tunnel of the greater project ].]]
A very dense rail network<ref name = FCO/> of {{convert|5063|km|mi|abbr=on}} carries over 350 million passengers annually.<ref></ref> In 2007, each Swiss citizen travelled on average {{convert|2103|km|mi|abbr=on}} by rail, which makes them the keenest rail users.<ref> admin.ch (German)</ref> The network is administered mainly by the ], except in Graubünden, where the {{convert|366|km|mi|abbr=on}} ] is operated by the ] and includes some World Heritage lines.<ref> unesco.org</ref> The building of new railway base tunnels through the Alps is under way to reduce the time of travel between north and south. Swiss private-public managed road network is funded by ]s and vehicle taxes. The Swiss autobahn/autoroute system requires the purchase of a ] (toll sticker)—which costs 40 ]s—for one calendar year in order to use its roadways, for both passenger cars and trucks. The Swiss autobahn/autoroute network has a total length of {{convert|1638|km|mi|abbr=on}} (as of 2000) and has, by an area of {{convert|41290|km2|sqmi|abbr=on}}, also the one of the highest ] densities in the world. ] is Switzerland's largest international flight gateway, which handled 20.7 million passengers in 2007.

Switzerland has one of the best environmental records among nations in the developed world;<ref> msnbc.com. Retrieved on 2009-12-02</ref> it was one of the countries to sign the ] in 1998 and ratified it in 2003. With ] and the ] it forms the ] (EIG).<ref> unfccc.int. Retrieved on 2009-12-02</ref> The country is heavily active in recycling and anti-littering regulations and is one of the top recyclers in the world, with 66% to 96% of recyclable materials being recycled, depending on the area of the country.<ref></ref> In many places in Switzerland, household garbage disposal is charged for. Garbage (except dangerous items, batteries etc.) is only collected if it is in bags which either have a payment sticker attached, or in official bags with the surcharge paid at the time of purchase.<ref>—Pricelist bags and stickers</ref> This gives a financial incentive to recycle as much as possible, since recycling is free.<ref>{{cite news |publisher=BBC |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/world/europe/4620041.stm |title=Recycling around the world |date=25 June 2005 |accessdate=24 April 2006}}</ref> Swiss health officials and police often open up garbage for which the disposal charge has not been paid and search for evidence such as old bills which connect the bag to the household/person they originated from. Fines for not paying the disposal fee range from ] 200–500.<ref> (1.6 ])—Wilde Deponien sind verboten... Für die Beseitigung widerrechtlich deponierter Abfälle wird zudem eine Umtriebsgebühr von Fr. 200.– oder eine Busse erhoben (page 90)</ref>

== Demographics ==
{{Main|Swiss (people)|Demographics of Switzerland|Linguistic geography of Switzerland}}
{{See|List of Swiss people}}
[[File:Sprachen CH 2000 EN.svg|thumb|250px|Official languages in Switzerland:<ref name="federalstatistics">{{cite web| url=http://www.bfs.admin.ch/bfs/portal/en/index/themen/01/05/blank/key/sprachen.html| title=Languages and religions - Data, indicators| author=Swiss Federal Statistical Office| accessdate=9 October 2007}} The first number refers to the share of languages within total population. The second refers to the Swiss citizens only.</ref>
{{legend|#fe9625| German (63.7%; 72.5%) }}
{{legend|#52b041| French (20.4%; 21.0%) }}
{{legend|#6a51a3| Italian (6.5%; 4.3%) }}
{{legend|#91238d| Romansh (0.5%; 0.6%) }}]]

Switzerland lies at the crossroads of several major European cultures that have heavily influenced the country's languages and culture. Switzerland has four ]s: German (63.7% total population share, with foreign residents; 72.5% of residents with ], in 2000) in the north, east and center of the country; French (20.4%; 21.0%) to the west; Italian (6.5%; 4.3%) in the south.<ref name="federalstatistics" /> ], a ] spoken locally by a small minority (0.5%; 0.6%) in the southeastern canton of ], is designated by the Federal Constitution as a national language along with German, French and Italian (Article 4 of the Constitution), and as official language if the authorities communicate with persons of Romansh language (Article 70), but federal laws and other official acts do not need to be decreed in this language. The federal government is obliged to communicate in the official languages, and in the federal parliament simultaneous translation is provided from and into German, French and Italian.<ref> parlament.ch. Retrieved on 2010-01-25</ref>

The German spoken in Switzerland is predominantly a group of ] collectively known as ], but written communication typically use ], whilst the majority of radio and TV broadcast is (nowadays) in Swiss German as well. Similarly, there are some dialects of ] in rural communities in the French speaking part, known as "Suisse romande", called Vaudois, Gruérien, Jurassien, Empro, Fribourgeois, Neuchâtelois, and in the Italian speaking area, ] (a dialect of ]). Also the official languages (German, French and Italian) borrow some terms not understood outside of Switzerland, i.e. terms from other languages (German ''Billette''<ref name="billete"></ref> from French), from similar term in another language (Italian ''azione'' used not as ''act'' but as ''discount'' from German ''Aktion''). Learning one of the other national languages at school is obligatory for all Swiss, so many Swiss are supposed to be at least ], especially those belonging to minorities.<ref> swissworld.org. Retrieved on 2010-01-25</ref>

Resident foreigners and temporary foreign workers make up about 22% of the population.<ref> (1196 ]), Swiss Federal Statistical Office, page 12.</ref> Most of these (60%) are from European Union or ] countries.<ref name="bfs.admin.ch"> (1196 ]), Swiss Federal Statistical Office, page 72.</ref> ] are the largest single group of foreigners with 17.3% of total foreign population. They are followed by ] (13.2%), immigrants from ] (11.5%) and ] (11.3%).<ref name="bfs.admin.ch"/> Immigrants from ], most of them former ] refugees, are the largest group among people of Asian origin.<ref>, Swiss Federal Statistical Office.</ref> In the 2000s, domestic and international institutions have expressed concern about what they perceive as an increase of ], particularly in some political campaignings. However, the high proportion of foreign citizens in the country, as well as the generally unproblematic integration of foreigners, underlines Switzerland's openness.<ref> humanrights.ch</ref>

=== Health ===
{{Main|Healthcare in Switzerland}}
The Swiss citizens are covered by a compulsory universal health-insurance coverage, permitting access to a broad range of modern medical services. The healthcare system compares well with other European countries and patients are largely satisfied with it. In 2006 life expectancy at birth was 79 years for men and 84 years for women.<ref name = WHO > who.int. Retrieved on 2009-06-29</ref> It is among the highest in the world.<ref> who.int. Retrieved on 2009-06-29</ref><ref> oecd.org. Retrieved on 2009-06-29</ref> However, spending on health is particularly high, with 11.5% of ] (2003) and, from 1990, a steady increase is observed, reflecting the high prices of the services provided<ref name = OECD> oecd.org. Retrieved on 2009-06-29</ref> With aging populations and new healthcare technologies, health spending will likely continue to rise.<ref name = OECD/>

=== Urbanisation ===
{{Main|Cities of Switzerland}}

] (outskirts of ])]]
Between two thirds and three quarters of the population live in urban areas.<ref> swissworld.org. Retrieved on 2009-06-26</ref><ref name = Cities> admin.ch. Retrieved on 2009-06-26</ref> Switzerland has gone from a largely rural country to an urban one in just 70 years. Since 1935 urban development has claimed as much of the Swiss landscape as it did during the previous 2,000 years. This ] does not only affect the plateau but also the Jura and the Alpine foothills<ref> swissinfo.ch. Retrieved on 2009-06-30</ref> and there are growing concerns about land use.<ref> gfs-zh.ch. Retrived on 2009-06-30</ref> However from the beginning of the 21st century, the population growth in urban areas is higher than in the countryside.<ref name = Cities/>

Switzerland has a dense network of cities, where large, medium and small cities are complementary.<ref name = Cities/> The ] is very densely populated with about 450 people per km<sup>2</sup> and the landscape continually shows signs of man's presence.<ref> swissworld.org. Retrieved on 2009-06-29</ref> The weight of the largest metropolitan areas, which are ], ]-], ] and ] tend to increase.<ref name = Cities/> In international comparison the importance of these urban areas is stronger than their number of inhabitants suggests.<ref name = Cities/> In addition the two main centers of Zürich and Geneva are recognized for their particular great quality of life.<ref> mercer.com. Retrieved on 2009-06-26</ref>

=== Religion ===
{{Main|Religion in Switzerland}}

Switzerland has no official ], though most of the ] (except ] and ]) recognize official churches, which are either the ] or the ]. These churches, and in some cantons also the ] and ] congregations, are financed by official taxation of adherents.<ref>, U.S. Department of State.</ref>

] ]]

] is the predominant religion of Switzerland, divided between the ] (41.8% of the population) and various Protestant denominations (35.3%). Immigration has brought ] (4.3%, predominantly ], ] and ]) and ] (1.8%) as sizeable minority religions.<ref name="people"></ref> In a ], Swiss voters banned the construction of new ]s. The 2005 Eurobarometer poll<ref>{{pdf||1.64&nbsp;]<!-- application/pdf, 1722129 bytes -->}}, Eurobarometer, June 2005.</ref> found 48% to be ], 39% expressing belief in "a spirit or life force", 9% ] and 4% ]. Greeley (2003) found that 27% of the population does not believe in God.<ref>Greeley, Andrew. 2003. Religion in Europe at the End of the Second Millennium. New Brunswick, NJ: Transaction Publishers</ref>

The country is historically about evenly balanced between Catholic and Protestant, with a complex patchwork of majorities over most of the country. One canton, Appenzell, was officially divided into Catholic and Protestant sections in 1597.<ref>{{cite book | last = Reclus | first = Élisée | authorlink = Élisée Reclus | coauthors = | title = The Earth and Its Inhabitants | publisher = D. Appleton and Company |year=1881 | location = | page = 478 | url = | doi = | id = | isbn = }}</ref> The larger cities (Bern, Geneva, Zürich and Basel) are predominantly Protestant. ], as well as Ticino, is traditionally Catholic. The ] of 1848, under the recent impression of the clashes of Catholic vs. Protestant cantons that culminated in the ], consciously defines a ], allowing the peaceful co-existence of Catholics and Protestants. A 1980 initiative calling for the complete ] was resoundingly rejected, with only 21.1% voting in support.<ref> admin.ch. Retrieved on 2010</ref>

== Culture ==
{{Main|Culture of Switzerland}}
{{See also|Music of Switzerland|Swiss folklore|Alpine culture}}
] ]]
Switzerland is in the unusual situation of being the home of three of Europe's major languages. Swiss culture is characterised by diversity, which is reflected in a wide range of traditional customs.<ref> swissworld.org. Retrieved on 2009-12-01</ref> A region may be in some ways strongly culturally connected to the neighbouring country that shares its language, the country itself being rooted in western ].<ref> Dr Michael Reiterer. Retrieved on 2009-12-01</ref> The linguistically isolated ] culture in eastern Switzerland constitutes an exception, it survives only in the upper valleys of the Rhine and the Inn and strives to maintain its rare linguistic tradition.

Switzerland is home to many notable contributors to literature, art, architecture, music and sciences. In addition the country attracted a number of creative persons during time of unrest or war in Europe.<ref> traveldocs.com. Retrieved on 2009-12-01</ref>
Some 1000 museums are distributed through the country; the number has more than tripled since 1950.<ref> swissworld.org. Retrived on 2009-12-02</ref> Among the most important cultural performances held annually are the ]<ref> swissworld.org. Retrieved on 2009-12-02</ref> and the ].<ref> nowpublic.com. Retrieved on 2009-12-02</ref>

Alpine symbolism has played an essential role in shaping the history of the country and the Swiss national identity.<ref> swissworld.org. Retrieved on 2009-12-01</ref><ref>, Oliver Zimmer, London School of Economics and Political Science</ref> Nowadays many mountain areas have a strong highly energetic ] culture in winter, and a ] (wandering) culture in summer. Some areas throughout the year have a recreational culture that caters to tourism, yet the quieter seasons are spring and autumn when there are fewer visitors and a higher ratio of Swiss. A traditional farmer and herder culture also predominates in many areas and small farms are omnipresent outside the cities. Folk art is kept alive in organisations all over the country. In Switzerland it is mostly expressed in music,dance, poetry, wood carving and embroidery. The ], a trumpet- like musical instrument made of wood, has become alongside ]ing and the accordion an epitome of traditional ].<ref> swissworld.org. Retrieved on 2009-12-02</ref><ref> europe-cities.com. Retrieved on 2009-12-14</ref>

=== Literature ===
{{Main|Literature of Switzerland}}
cp-pc.ca. Retrieved on 2009-12-14</ref> (his statue in ])]]
As the Confederation, from its foundation in 1291, was almost exclusively composed of German-speaking regions, the earliest forms of literature are in German. In the 18th century French became the fashionable language in Bern and elsewhere, while the influence of the French-speaking allies and subject lands was more marked than before.<ref>From ], ]</ref>

Among the classics of Swiss German literature are ] (1797–1854) and ] (1819–1890). The undisputed giants of 20th century Swiss literature are ] (1911–91) and ] (1921–90), whose repertoire includes Die Physiker (]) and Das Versprechen (]), released in 2001 as a Hollywood film.<ref name = Literature> swissworld.org, Retrieved on 2009-06-23</ref>

Prominent French-speaking writers were ] (1712–1778) and ] (1766–1817). More recent authors include ] (1878–1947), whose novels describe the lives of peasants and mountain dwellers, set in a harsh environment and ] (born Frédéric Sauser, 1887–1961).<ref name = Literature/> Also Italian and Romansh-speaking authors contributed but in more modest way given their small number.

The probably most famous Swiss literary creation, '']'', the story of an orphan girl who lives with her grandfather in the Alps, was one of the most popular children's books ever and has come to be a symbol of Switzerland. Her creator, ] (1827–1901), wrote a number of other books around similar themes.<ref name = Literature/>

=== Media ===
{{Main|Media of Switzerland}}
The freedom of the press and the right to free expression is guaranteed in the federal constitution of Switzerland.<ref name = Media> ch.ch. Retrieved on 2009-06-25</ref> The ] (SNA) broadcasts information around-the-clock in three of the four national languages—on politics, economics, society and culture. The SNA supplies almost all Swiss media and a couple dozen foreign media services with its news.<ref name = Media/>

Switzerland has historically boasted the greatest number of newspaper titles published in proportion to its population and size.<ref name = Press> pressreference.com. Retrieved on 2009-06-25</ref> The most influential newspapers are the German-language ] and ] NZZ, and the French-language ], but almost every city has at least one local newspaper. The cultural diversity accounts for a large number of newspapers.<ref name = Press/>

In contrast to the print media, the broadcast media has always been under greater control of the government.<ref name = Press/> The Swiss Broadcasting Corporation, whose name was recently changed to ], is charged with the production and broadcast of radio and television programs. SRG SSR studios are distributed throughout the various language regions. Radio content is produced in six central and four regional studios while the television programs are produced in ], ] and ]. An extensive cable network also allows most Swiss to access the programs from neighboring countries.<ref name = Press/>

=== Sports ===
{{Main|Sport in Switzerland}}
]]]
], ] and ] are among the most popular sports in Switzerland, the nature of the country being particularly suited for such activities.<ref> europe-cities.com. Retrieved on 2009-12-14</ref> Winter sports are practiced by the natives and tourists since the second half of the 19th century with the invention of ] in ].<ref> fibt.com. Retrieved on 2009-11-02</ref> The first ] were held in ] (1931) and St. Moritz (1934). The latter town hosted the second ] in 1928 and the fifth edition in 1948. Among the most successful skiers and world champions are ] and ].

] in ]]]
Like other Europeans, many Swiss are fans of ] and the national team or ']' is widely supported. Switzerland was the joint host, with Austria, of the ] tournament. Many Swiss also follow ] and support one of the 12 clubs in the ]. In April 2009, Switzerland hosted the ] for the 10th time.<ref></ref> The numerous lakes make Switzerland an attractive place for sailing. The largest, ], is the home of the sailing team ] which was the first European team to win the ] in 2003 and which successfully defended the title in 2007. Tennis has become increasely popular sport, and Swiss players such ] and ] have won multiple ]s.

] is one of the best male players in the history of tennis, and the current number one ] tennis player in the world]]
] racecourses and events were banned in Switzerland following the ] with exception to events such as ]. However, this ban was overturned in June 2007.<ref>{{cite web | title = Switzerland lifts ban on motor racing | url = http://en.wikinews.org/Switzerland_lifts_ban_on_motor_racing | publisher = GrandPrix.com & DueMotori.com | date = 6 June 2007 | accessdate = 23 September 2008}}</ref> During this period, the country still produced successful racing drivers such as ], ] and successful ] driver ]. ] also won the ] in ] with driver ]. Swiss ] ] won the 2005 ] World Championship in the 125cc category.

Traditional sports include Swiss wrestling or "]". It is an old tradition from the rural central cantons and considered the national sport by some. ] is another indigenous Swiss sport, which is like a cross between baseball and golf.<ref> swissroots.org. Retrieved on 2010-01-25</ref> ] is the Swiss variant of ], a competition in throwing a heavy stone. Practiced only among the alpine population since ], it is recorded to have taken place in ] in the 13th century. It is also central to the ], first held in 1805, with its symbol the 83.5&nbsp;kg stone named ''Unspunnenstein''.<ref> interlaken.ch. Retrieved on 2010-01-25</ref>

=== Food ===
{{Main|Swiss cuisine}}
The cuisine of Switzerland is multi-faceted. While some dishes such as ], ] or ] are omnipresent through the country, each region developed its own gastronomy according to the differences of climate and languages.<ref> theworldwidegourmet.com. Retrieved on 2009-06-24</ref> Traditional Swiss cuisine uses ingredients similar to those in other European countries, as well as unique ]s and cheeses such as ] or ], produced in the valleys of ] and ]. The number of fine-dining establishments is high, particularly in western Switzerland.<ref> Press information, Michelin. Retrived on 2009-12-14</ref><ref> usatoday.com. Retrived on 2009-12-14</ref>

] had been made in Switzerland since the 18th century but it gained its reputation at the end of the 19th century with the invention of modern techniques such as ] and ] which enabled its production on a high quality level. Also a breakthrough was the invention of milk chocolate in 1875 by ].<ref> swissworld.org. Retrieved on 2009-06-24</ref>

] is produced mainly in ], ] (]), ] and ], with a small majority of white wines. Vineyards have been cultivated in Switzerland since the Roman era, even though certain traces can be found of a more ancient origin. The most widespread varieties are the ] (called ] in Valais) and ]. The ] is the main variety produced in Ticino.<ref> swisswine.ch. Retrieved on 2009-06-24</ref>

== See also ==
{{portal|Switzerland|Flag of Switzerland.svg}}
* ]
* ]

== Notes ==
{{reflist|group=note}}

== References ==
=== Footnotes ===
{{reflist|colwidth=30em}}

=== Bibliography ===
{{Refbegin|2}}
* Church, Clive H. (2004) ''The Politics and Government of Switzerland''. Palgrave Macmillan. ISBN 0-333-69277-2.
* Dalton, O.M. (1927) ''The History of the Franks, by Gregory of Tours''. Oxford: The Clarendon Press.
* Fahrni, Dieter. (2003) ''An Outline History of Switzerland. From the Origins to the Present Day''. 8th enlarged edition. Pro Helvetia, Zürich. ISBN 3-908102-61-8
*] (2002–). Published electronically and in print simultaneously in three national languages of Switzerland.
{{Refend}}

== External links ==
{{sisterlinks|Switzerland}}
{{cookbook}}

<!-- please only list links of nation-wide relevance here. Consider adding other links to the "External links" section of the sub-articles listed. -->
;Government
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*, official website of the Swiss Federal Statistical Office

;Reference
*{{CIA World Factbook link|sz|Switzerland}}
* entry at '']''
* at ''UCB Libraries GovPubs''
*{{dmoz|Regional/Europe/Switzerland}}

;Geography
*{{wikiatlas|Switzerland}}
*{{wikitravel|Switzerland}}
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;Travel
*, official website of Switzerland Tourism

;History
* {{de icon}} {{fr icon}} {{it icon}}
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;News media
* {{de icon}}, a Swiss daily newspaper
* {{fr icon}}, a Swiss daily newspaper
* {{it icon}}, a Swiss daily newspaper
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Revision as of 17:12, 1 February 2010

switzerland is awesomelop0ijugtrf!