Information on Switzerland

Official Name Confederati Suisse (French), Schweizerische Edgenossenschaft (German), Confederazione Svizzera (Italian), (Swiss Confederation)

Capital Berne

Population 7.2 million (2001)

Area 41,293 sq km

Currency Franc ($ = 1.67)

Religion Christianity

Literacy 100%

Languages French, German, Italian, Romansh

Major Cities Zurich, Basel, Geneva, Lausanne

Climate Varied in nature

INTRODUCTION

Switzerland with its snowcapped mountains, glaciers and lakes is a prized tourist destination. 60% of its area is covered by the Alps mountain range. It is one of the most peace loving countries of the world and has had no wars since the early 16th century. This is especially noticeable as its neighbors have been involved in all kinds of wars, including the two World Wars.

Location of Switzerland

Switzerland is a landlocked country that shares its boundary with Austria and Liechtenstein in the east, France in the west, Italy in the south and Germany in the north.

Flora And Fauna of Switzerland

Varying heights and the sun facing slopes result in a variety of flora and fauna. Deciduous forests dominate in lower slopes, while coniferous forests dominate at around 2,200 m (7,200 ft), above which the snow and cold allow only grass to grow during summer.

The animal life also varies as per the height of the place, as the fauna of a place is very dependant upon the vegetation and Climate of a place. From Marmot and ibex in Alpine regions, to deers and fox

in the forested regions, to a varied species of birds, Switzerland can boast of a wide range of fauna. Its numerous lakes are home to the grebe, heron, plover, and numerous duck species.

Physical Map of Switzerland

The topography of Switzerland is mostly mountainous with the Alps in south and Jura in the northwest. The central plateau consists of rolling hills, plains, and large lakes. Due to its steep hilly topography, Switzerland is the origin of many great rivers that include the Rhine and the Rhone, while the Po and the Danube are fed by rivers originating here. Glaciers and high waterfalls are a common sight.

Climate of Switzerland

Switzerland has a varied set of climates; the west is influenced by the Winds blowing in from the Atlantic, the east has a continental climate , and south of the Alps the climate is almost Mediterranean. Spring is generally wet and cool; April is well known for fast and often changing weather conditions; summer is warm and dry with maximum temperature of 35�C (95�F); fall is dry and cool; September and October brings in the cold and dry winter. Apart from high elevation areas, snow is common in lower elevations too.

Economy of Switzerland, Its People, Culture & Flag

Switzerland Map | Zurich Flights

Switzerland Map, Political || Weather Switzerland

Your Window to the World

Information on Switzerland