Key Facts about Switzerland

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Discover Switzerland's key facts

Location

Switzerland is situated in central Europe, east of France and north of Italy.

Land Area

Switzerland is slightly less than twice the size of New Jersey and stretches over an total area of 41,290 sq km, which 39,770 sq km is land and 1,520 sq km is water. Switzerland does not have a coastline, it is landlocked.

Climate

Switzerland has a temperate climate but it varies with altitude. It has cold, cloudy, rainy and snowy winters and cool to warm, cloudy, humid summers with occasional showers.

Natural Resources and Hazards

The main recognized natural resources of Switzerland are hydropower potential, timber and salt. Some experienced natural hazards are avalanches, landslides and flash floods.

Population and Employment

Switzerland has a population of 7,489 370 (July 2005 est.) people, with an average of 80.39 years of life expectancy at birth. It has a total labour force of 3.77 million people(2004 est.), who are all occupied in the following industries: agriculture 4.6%, industry 26.3%, and services 69.1%. Switzerland has a fairly low unemployment rate of 3.4% (2004 est.).

Religion

41.8% of Switzerland's population are Roman Catholics, 35.3% are Protestants, 1.8% are Orthodox, 0.4% are Christians, 4.3% are Muslims, 4.3% are unspecified, and 11.1% have no religion.

Flag

Switzerland has a red flag with a bold, equilateral white cross in the center that does not extend to the edges of the flag.

Agricultural Products and Main Industries

Switzerland's main agricultural products are grains, fruits, vegetables, meat and eggs. Its main industries are machinery, chemicals, watches, textiles and precision instruments.

Capital

The capital of Switzerland is Bern with a total population of 7.2 million people (2004 est.).

Time Zone

GMT plus 1 hour