Geneva

placed in the category: Cities

Geneva, located to the north-west extremity of Switzerland, is the second most populated city of the country. It is one of the world's major international diplomacy centers, which used to serve as the site of early headquarters to the International Committee of the Red Cross. Though officially a French-speaking city, there is presence of English, Spanish, Portuguese, Russian and Arabic speakers.

Geneva is a very tourist-friendly destination with hotels to suit all budgets, frequent transportation and helpful authorities. Some of the top destinations of Geneva are:

Jet d'Eau, the Rade: Water spurts nearly 140 meters high from this fountain, which is the tallest fountain in the world. The fountain is best viewed from a distance and the best time to view is at night. The fountain is surrounded by the half-kilometer long Lake Geneva and it is open daily from 10:00 hours to 11:00 hours. The fountain got its permanent place in 1891.

Cathédrale St-Pierre, Place St. Pierre: It is located at the highest point in the Old Town. The new Espace Saint Pierre pass includes entry to all three sides of Cour Saint-Pierre. The Cathedral and its tower embody the high point of the Reformed tradition. Both explore the origin of Christianity with a site of archaeology that is now complemented by the International Museum of Reformation. The International Museum of Reformation is on the ground floor of the Maison Mallet.

The underground passage, which was reopened when the Museum was built, connects the two buildings. The three buildings invite the visitors for exploring the history of Geneva. The new Espace Saint-Pierre aims to contribute to the understanding of present day world- between modernity and tradition, spiritual practice and cultural experimentation.

International Museum of the Reformation: This museum is located on the ground floor of the Maison Mallet. It displays the major spiritual and cultural elements of the Reformation. Geneva and Reformation are closely tied through unique objects, manuscripts, engravings, rare books and paintings. Modern audience is attracted to State-of-the-art technology that includes films, music room and demonstrations. You can also explore the archaeological site, which is underneath the cathedral or you climb the tower inside the cathedral.

Museum of the International Committee of the Red Cross: It is one of the best museums in Europe. You can explore the photographic details and other bodily evidence of the I.C.R.C's service to humanity during wartime and natural catastrophes.

Parc des Bastions: This Park is lined with trees and it houses the liberal arts campus of the University of Geneva. This lovely park is located between the old town and Plain de Plainpalais, making it a good place for visiting.

Parc des Eaux Vives: This park has a walkway and offers views of the U.N. campus and Palais des Nations over the lake.