Swiss Stories

The saffron flower is violet. It blossoms in the month of September in the fields of Upper Valais.

The red gold of Upper Valais

Society
Saffron has been cultivated in Mund, in Upper-Valais, since the 14th century. It is the only village in Switzerland where the spice still grows naturally. We examine a family tradition that has endured to this day.

by Lea Huszno

©️ Swiss Armed Forces Digital Media Centre, Nadine Strub

Haute cuisine in camouflage trousers: the Swiss Armed Forces culinary team

Society
The Swiss Armed Forces culinary team is repeatedly voted one of the best in its field, often far outdoing non-military culinary teams in international contests. How can that be? The answer lies in the militia system that has shaped Switzerland for centuries.

by Michael Senn

Ambulance jet Bombardier Challenger 650

Rega: the Swiss saviour

History
Rega, also known as Swiss Air-Rescue, carries out helicopter and ambulance jet missions in Switzerland and abroad for those in need. The non-profit foundation celebrated its 70th anniversary this year and is supported by the financial contributions of more than 3.6 million patrons.

by Olivia Chang

Dance Appenzell

10 typically Swiss celebrations

Society
In Switzerland, 'hello', 'goodbye' and 'thank you' come in four languages! There are as many traditional dishes as there are cantons, and just as many ways to celebrate spring, winter, the descent from the mountain pastures and other festivals.
Ajla Del Ponte, Sarah Atcho, Mujinga Kanbundji et Salomé Kora

Swiss sprinters: the women's dream team

Society
Fourth at the last World Championships in Doha in 2019, the Swiss women in the 4 x 100 metres relay will be aiming for a medal at the Tokyo Olympic Games. They represent Switzerland and have roots in Côte d'Ivoire, Benin, Congo and Bosnia, which is also their strength.

by Bertrand Monnard

Gordon Bennett

Switzerland, home of ballooning

Society
Although ballooning in Switzerland is most commonly associated with the record-breaking exploits of the Piccard family, its history actually dates back to 1788 when a hydrogen-filled balloon took to the air from Basel.
Hugo Koblet

Swiss cycling pros

Society
Switzerland is not just a nation of tennis players and skiers. The competitive cycling scene has also often seen Swiss pros in the lead in the world's most important races. Five powerful pedallers: introducing Switzerland's leading cyclists.