Geneva This international city on the shores of Lake Geneva (in French, Lac Leman) was an important market town in the Middle Ages and was a hotbed of Protestant reform in the early 16th century. In fact, from John Calvin's church, the Cathedrale de St-Pierre, one can get a wonderful view of the historic old town and the surrounding area. Lake Geneva and the Rhone River divide the city into the Left Bank and the Right Bank. On the Left Bank is the historic Old Town, the university, museums, and important shopping streets. On the right bank are a number of parks. The city is a great one for walking, with many lakefront promenades. From the Quai Gustave-Ador, on the lakefront, one can get a view of the Jet d'Eau, the world's tallest fountain. There is also the quai de President-Wilson, named after the American politician who was instrumental in the founding of the League of Nations, which had its headquarters here. Switzerland is famous for its watches, and visitors can learn more about that industry at the Musee de L'Horlogere. There is also a flower clock (Hologe Fleurie) at the Jardin Anglais. The International Red Cross was founded in Geneva, and travelers may want to visit the museum devoted to that organization. The city is surrounded by French territory on three sides; in fact, only the lake and a relatively narrow strip of land connect it to the rest of Switzerland. The French influence is evident throughout the city, in its architecture, people, and way of life. Lausanne Also on Lake Geneva is the city of Lausanne. The streets here are very steep; luckily, there is a very good public transportation system. The city is home to the International Olympic Committee; the Musee Olympique presents exhibits about the games. Visitors who are interested in the offbeat may enjoy the Collection de l'Art Brut,a museum devoted to artworks made by criminals and those suffering from psychological disorders. Montreaux This is a city devoted to music. In the summer, there is the world-famous Montreaux Jazz Festival. In the fall is the Classical Music Festival. An hour's walk along the lake brings one to the Chateau de Chillon, a well-preserved 13-century fortress that is featured in the literary works of Byron, Hugo, and Dumas. |
