Schwyz (Swiss Canton)

The small town of Schwyz, which gave its name to Switzerland, is home to the Forum of Swiss History and to important founding documents of the Swiss Confederation. In spring, the beautiful landscape formed by thousands of cherry blossoms attracts many visitors to the region, which is also famous for its kirsch (cherry brandy).

Switzerland owes its name and coat of arms to this small town between Lake Lucerne and the small Lake Lauerz. In 1291, Uri, Schwyz and Unterwalden renewed an ancient pact that did not constitute a declaration of independence, but in 1315 the Confederates defeated the Austrians at the Battle of Morgarten and history accelerated, leading to de facto independence that was internationally recognised much later, in 1815.

The Museum of Federal Charters in Schwyz holds the most important documents of the first confederation, including its constitution, and the Forum of Swiss History shows how people lived on Swiss territory between 1300 and 1600.

Schwyz was a very poor country and, from the 16th century onwards, many of its inhabitants had to join foreign armies. They were brave warriors and those who returned after making their fortune built proud houses, some of which still exist today.

The canton of Schwyz is also the original home of the Swiss knife and 25,000 of these red universal tools are made here every day, which has led to the tourist region around Schwyz being called the "Swiss Knife Valley".