Local Swiss Guide by Yellow Pages Switzerland

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The Story of the Alphorn

February 24, 2026

Echoes Across the Alps Reading Time: 4 Min. Publication: February 24, 2026, Jonathan Schönholzer Few instruments are as closely tied to a landscape as the alphorn is to Switzerland . Long, curved, and crafted from wood, its deep, resonant tones seem to belong naturally to alpine meadows and snow-capped peaks. Often associated with traditional costumes and mountain festivals, the alphorn is far more than a tourist symbol. Its origins lie in the practical life of Alpine farmers, and its sound carries centuries of rural tradition, communication, and cultural identity. From Pastures to Peaks: Practical Beginnings The alphorn began not as a musical instrument for entertainment, but as a tool for communication. As early as the Middle Ages, herdsmen in the Alps needed ways to signal across vast mountain valleys. Sound travels remarkably well in high alpine terrain, and a long wooden horn proved ideal for calling cattle...

Ricola – Swiss herbal candies with Alpine power and tradition

February 19, 2026

A true Swiss success story from Laufen Reading Time: 5 Min. Publication: February 19, 2026, Jessy Thür When it comes to typical Swiss culinary culture, almost everyone immediately thinks of chocolate or cheese - but one very special sweet treat also belongs on this list: Ricola , the legendary herbal candies from Switzerland. For almost a century, they have stood for natural ingredients, alpine tradition, and Swiss craftsmanship. This article highlights how Ricola came into being, why the famous 13-herb blend is so unique, and how the company combines sustainability with Swiss identity today. From Laufen to the world – the story of a Swiss success story Ricola was founded in 1930 in the small town of Laufen in the canton of Basel-Land. At that time, confectioner Emil Wilhelm Richterich opened a confectionery shop where he produced and sold sweets and herbal products. Fascinated by the power of Swiss alpine herbs, he soon bega...

The History and Mythology of Helvetia

February 17, 2026

The Woman Who Became Switzerland Reading Time: 4 Min. Publication: February 17, 2026, Jonathan Schönholzer Switzerland is often represented not by a king, a warrior, or a mythical beast, but by a woman named Helvetia. She appears on coins, stamps, monuments, buildings , and official artwork, usually holding a shield with a white cross and a spear or flag. More than a decorative figure, Helvetia is the personification of the Swiss nation, an embodiment of its history, values, and self-image. Her story blends ancient tribal roots, classical mythology, and modern nation-building into a uniquely Swiss symbol. From the Helvetii to a National Name The name Helvetia originates with the Helvetii, a Celtic tribe that inhabited the Swiss Plateau in the centuries before Roman conquest. In 58 BCE, the Helvetii famously attempted a mass migration, only to be defeated by Julius Caesar, an event recorded in his Commentarii de B...

Why Swiss Cheese Is a National Icon

February 11, 2026

Cheese - More Than Holes Reading Time: 4 Min. Publication: February 11, 2026, Jonathan Schönholzer Few foods are as closely associated with a country as cheese is with Switzerland . From alpine huts high above the tree line to supermarket shelves around the world, Swiss cheese has become a symbol of craftsmanship, tradition, and quality. While many people think first of pale yellow wheels with neat round holes, Switzerland’s cheese culture is far richer and more diverse. Its iconic status is rooted in geography, history, and an uncompromising approach to production that continues to define Swiss identity. Geography, Cows, and Craft Switzerland’s mountainous landscape plays a decisive role in its cheese-making heritage. Much of the country is unsuitable for large-scale crop farming , but its alpine meadows are ideal for grazing. For centuries, farmers moved their cows to high pastures during the summer months, wher...

Overview of booming industries in Switzerland

February 10, 2026

Where the economy is growing – and which industries are currently in high demand Reading Time: 5 Min. Publication: February 10, 2026, Jessy Thür The Swiss economy is one of the most competitive in the world – stable, innovative, and diversified. But not all industries are developing at the same pace; while traditional sectors such as mechanical engineering and classic industry are facing challenges, there are dynamic growth areas that are currently particularly strong. In this article, I will show you which industries are currently booming, why they are growing, and where the greatest opportunities lie for companies, workers, and investors. 1. Pharmaceuticals and life sciences - still a flagship industry The pharmaceutical and chemical sectors are among the biggest drivers of growth in the Swiss economy. These two industries have recently recorded significant increases in production and exports and have contributed significantl...

Regional business cultures in Switzerland

February 04, 2026

What distinguishes companies in Zurich, Geneva, and Ticino Reading Time: 4 Min. Publication: February 04, 2026, Jessy Thür Switzerland is small but extremely diverse in economic and cultural terms. This becomes particularly clear when comparing the three regions of Zurich, Geneva, and Ticino. Although they are located in the same country and share the same legal framework, companies in these regions differ considerably in terms of their language, culture, management style, and international orientation. Anyone doing business in Switzerland or looking to expand should be aware of these differences and take them into account. Zurich: Efficiency, innovation, and performance Zurich is considered the economic center of Switzerland. The city is home to numerous banks, insurance companies, technology companies, and start-ups. Accordingly, the business culture is strongly performance- and efficiency-oriented. Processes are clearly def...

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