The legend of William Tell

William Tell is one of the universal symbols of the victory of the oppressed over the oppressor. Is it possible that William Tell, the very symbol of Swiss independence, never existed ? It is 1291 and the story begins at a time when Austria—a foreign power—ruled the cantons of Uri, Schwytz and Unterwald, now forming part...

Plus More →

Myths — the Swiss Lake Dwellers

When I was at school we were taught that early civilizations in Switzerland had built villages on raised wooden platforms standing in shallow water on the lake shores. When I came to live in Switzerland I learned that this was untrue. What a pity ! Where did this rather attractive and romantic idea come from and...

Plus More →