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Switzerland

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L’Escalade | Escalade Festival.

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L’Escalade commemorates the only memorable date in Geneva’s history. Forget about John Calvin, the foundation of the Red Cross, the ill-fated League of Nations, and the countless international organizations and diplomatic events hosted by Geneva during the past century or so.

All fine institutions and often important events in their own right but the only date that counts in Genevan history is December 12, 1602.

L’Escalade, or Fête de l’Escalade, is an annual festival in Geneva, held each December in celebration of the defeat of an attempt to conquer the Protestant city by the Catholic Duchy of Savoy.

Also сheck оut мore info: VISIT GENEVA

The climax of L’Escalade is the grand parade (grand cortège de l’Escalade) on the Sunday evening arranged by the Compagnie de 1602. The parade of around 800 participants in period dress and 60 horses follows a set route with special stopping points in the old town. Public transportation in Geneva is severely disrupted from late afternoon on this Sunday

According to legend, this was possible thanks to many individual acts of bravery by citizens, notably by a cook (la Mère Royaume) who dumped boiling vegetable soup on the invaders before raising an alarm. The celebrations and other commemorative activities are usually held on 12 December or the closest weekend.

Celebrations include a large marmite (cauldron) made of chocolate and filled with marzipan vegetables and candies wrapped in the Geneva colours of red and gold.

It is customary for the eldest and youngest in the room to smash the marmite, while reciting, “Ainsi périrent les ennemis de la République! ” (Thus perished the enemies of the Republic), referring to how Catherine Cheynel, better known as Mère Royaume, poured boiling hot vegetable soup on soldiers climbing up the walls of the city.

Escalade festival is taking place in the Old Town, mainly on these sites where it is practically impossible to miss:

  • Place du Bourg-de-Four (Saturday evening, map)
  • Park des Bastions (whole weekend, map)
  • square in front of the St. Peter’s Cathedral (celebration fire on Sunday starting by 6pm, map)
 

#1 Visit Bern

Bern is renowned for its well-preserved medieval architecture, charming old town (UNESCO World Heritage Site), and rich cultural heritage.

#2 Visit Zurich

Known for its picturesque setting, vibrant cultural scene, and high quality of life, Zurich offers a range of attractions and activities for tourists.

#3 Paleo Festival

In 45 years, the Paléo Festival in Nyon has become the biggest festival in Switzerland, without losing its warmth, or sense of fun.

Public transport.

Information about all types of public transport.

Transports Publics Genevois (TPG)

Swiss Pass – The “Swiss Pass” is now called the “Swiss Travel Pass.”

Also сheck оut мore info: Arrival and entry / Tickets public transport / Swiss public transportation (myswitzerland.com)

BUS: Swiss PostAuto bus network / + EurolinesFlixbus

TRAIN: SBB-CFF-FFS. + TGV LyriaInterCity Express (*Rail travel in Switzerland)

AIRPORT: Major international airports: Genève Aéroport • Zurich AirportEuroAirport Basel-Mulhouse-Freiburg.

FERRY: Association of Swiss Navigation Companies

GenevAuthentic – Fête de l’Escalade.

In 1602, the Duke of Savoy’s troops met with resistance from the people of Geneva. More than 400 years later, the city continues to celebrate this event for an entire weekend.

video source: Geneva Tourism / youtube.com /

Useful websites.

Links to additional resources with useful information for planning your trip.

VISAS & IMMIGRATION.

You can visit this website to find comprehensive and up-to-date information on visa requirements, application procedures, forms, fees.

Switzerland Mobility.

Switzerland Mobility is provides information on cycling, mountain biking, rollerblading, and other outdoor activities in Switzerland.

Swiss Museums.

The Swiss Museums Association website provides a directory of museums in Switzerland, allowing you to explore collections and exhibitions.

Welcome to the Swiss Alps! | MySwissAlps.com

Map of Switzerland with points of interest | map.search.ch

Swiss Alpine Club | www.sac-cas.ch

The MySwitzerland app is available for both iOS and Android devices. It offers a wealth of information about Switzerland, including destination guides, maps, event listings, and personalized trip planning features.

Switzerland Mobility is another website that focuses on outdoor activities and recreational routes. It provides information on cycling, mountain biking, rollerblading, and other outdoor activities in Switzerland.

The Swiss Parks website offers insights into Switzerland’s national parks and nature reserves. It provides information on the parks’ landscapes, wildlife, hiking trails, and conservation efforts.

Swiss Food and Culinary Traditions (patrimoineculinaire.ch): To explore the culinary traditions of Switzerland, the Swiss Culinary Heritage Foundation website provides information on traditional Swiss dishes, regional specialties, and food-related events.