The origins of the Habsburg family, one of the most influential in European history, are Swiss. Their castle still stands on a hill overlooking the town of Habsburg, in northern Switzerland.
Throughout history, thousands of men and women have shaped Switzerland’s territory and society. The stories of who they were, the battles, revolutionary ideas or quiet but significant changes have been handed down through generations, and now fill the pages of Swiss history books. The traces of this rich heritage are many, some hidden and unknown.
In this series by Swiss Public Television, RSI, seven places have been chosen that are linked to historical events, myths and legends, that are part of the country’s cultural heritage.
The Habsburgs were at the head of the empire on which the sun never set. In Switzerland many buildings recall their reign. The seventh and last episode of the series visits two of them, the Habsburg Castle that was built around 1000 years ago, where the family originated, and the 13th century castle of Wildegg with its majestic gardens.
(RSI, swissinfo.ch)
Popular Stories
More
Multinational companies
Azeri fossil-fuel cash cow brings controversy to Switzerland
This content was published on
La Chaux-de-Fonds is a city resurrected from its ashes. After a catastrophic fire, it was rebuilt to suit the watchmakers who lived and worked there.
This content was published on
An alpine valley might seem an unexpected place to admire historical masterpieces, but that's not the case in the Simmental valley.
This content was published on
Swiss National Day is steeped in history. Celebrated inside Switzerland and abroad: It's a time to grill sausages, paint lanterns and set off fireworks.
This content was published on
Rural Aargau. Rolling green fields, vineyards and high on the hill, the baroque Wildegg CastleExternal link. Founded in the 13th century by the Habsburgs, the great ruling dynasty that – perhaps unknown to some – has its roots in the canton. The building later passed to the Effingers, staying with them for 11 generations. The…
This content was published on
The celebrations will look back on the Gotthard Pass’s great historical and mythical importance to the Swiss, with all its associations with the birth of a nation. “The Gotthard’s popularity comes in waves. International traffic was phenomenal during the second half of the 13th century, then commercial routes changed and maritime trade developed,” said Jean-Daniel…
You can find an overview of ongoing debates with our journalists here . Please join us!
If you want to start a conversation about a topic raised in this article or want to report factual errors, email us at english@swissinfo.ch.