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Interesting Facts about Switzerland

Trivia, oddities, and curious tidbits about Switzerland.

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Did You Know?

20 curious facts about Switzerland.

This country holds the world record for eating the most chocolate. Citizens consume 19 pounds on average per person per year.
The name “Switzerland” comes from Schwyz, one of the three cantons (provinces) that originally formed the Swiss Confederation. The country is also known as Helvetica, because the original inhabitants were called Helvetians.
During the winter, a warm wind called the Fohn sometimes blows, melting the ice and causing avalanches. This wind can increase the risk of forest fires, so during the time of the Fohn, some Swiss mountain villages forbid smoking.
Because of its policy of neutrality, Switzerland has not been directly involved in foreign wars, but many Swiss have served as mercenaries in other countries over the centuries. The Swiss Guards, who serve in the Vatican, are the only remaining Swiss mercenary force.

The Swiss are leaders in recycling everything from cans, glass and plastic bottles, to newspapers, furniture, batteries and clothing. The Swiss must pay for each bag of garbage that is picked up and they must place their garbage in special bags purchased from the cantons.
The Swiss take great pride in their homes and gardens. Many Swiss homes are adorned with window boxes of geraniums and other flowers. Their yards are fenced and look neat and orderly.
Switzerland is not a member of the European Union (EU) or the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), but it is a member of European Free Trade Association, the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) and the Council of Europe. Switzerland is also an observer in the United Nations, although it is not a member.
In 1998 and 1999, the top woman tennis player in the world was Swiss-born Martina Hingis.
One of the most popular Swiss card games is called Jass (pronounced Yas), played with 36 cards in 4 suits.
Switzerland is home to many international organizations, such as the World Health Organization (WHO), the International Red Cross and UNICEF.