5 fun facts about Switzerland

Switzerland is a travel destination in the heart of Europe, and a place on many people’s bucket lists.

From iconic landscapes and the alpine mountains, to the Rhine River straddling Liechtenstein and Switzerland and a unique way of life, this is one country really worth checking out.

There is much to do in this part of Europe.

The five fun facts about the country are given in the points below.

1. There is No Swiss Language

Many people think that there is a ‘Swiss’ language.

The truth is that there is no such thing. Switzerland is actually a multilingual country, with three major languages, namely French, German, Italian and Rhaeto-Romantsch.

In addition to this, the people have a high degree of fluency in the English language, with more than half the population having a high degree of proficiency in it.

2. The Swiss Love Their Guns

Switzerland has one of the highest gun ownership rates in the world.

While this is partly due to the fact that you are required to own one by law, there is also a ‘cultural’ element involved as well.

Gun ownership rates is one of the most distinct Swiss traditions in the world, with people owning more guns than most people anywhere in the world, expect for the United States.

3. The Swiss Have a Square Flag

If you’re familiar with the flags of the world, you will notice that almost all of them are rectangular.

In the case of Switzerland however, there happens to be a square flag.

Switzerland is in fact one of two countries to have a square flag, the other one being the Vatican.

4. It is Illegal to Keep a Single Pet

One of the more peculiar laws in Switzerland is that you are not allowed to keep a single pet.

In the interest of the animal, you are required by law to keep two or more animals together.

5. The Swiss are some of the Longest Lived in the World

Although life expectancy in Europe is generally high, the Swiss have it especially on the upper limits, with people living longer and healthier than anywhere else.

With 81.3 years for Swiss men and 85.3 years for Swiss women, Switzerland has one of the highest life expectancies on earth.

Last but not the least, the above is but an example of what this landlocked country has to offer.

So if you have any plans to traverse this part of Europe, know that you’ll be in for a real treat when you get here.