Interesting Facts about Switzerland

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.