Geneva

History

In the year 120 B.C. there existed Celtic settlement where Rhone flows from the Lake of Geneva. This settlement formed one of Roman provinces. In the 4th century it adopted Christianity and in the year 443 was governed by Burgunds, who made their capital there in the 9th century.

Later on the city was occupied by the Franks, and in the year 1032 it was annexed to German emperor’s possessions. The year 1532 was the time of Reformation in Geneva. Jan Calvin (1509 – 1564) made Geneva one of the largest centers of new religion in Europe. In 1584 Geneva entered into the first alliance with Bern and Zurich. In 1798 the city was occupied by the French. After Napoleon’s overthrow Geneva got its independence and in 1815 officially joined the Confederation exercising its rights as of the 22nd Canton.

Places to see

Mont-Blanc Bridge is one of four bridges over Rhone. From this bridge one can see the famous “jet-d’eau”, a fountain that soars to 140 meters, which now has become one of the most noted symbols for this city.

On one of helms of Geneva you will find the Old Town. Narrow streets will lead you to the Cathedral of St. Pierre – basilica dated 12th-13th century. The Cathedral’s building was begun in roman style and ended in gothic epoch. In the 18th century its main facade was decorated with classic portico and colonnade.

The Brunswick Monument and the Tour de L’Isle (island tower) are obligatory sights on any tour of the city.

 

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