Did you know that the city of Geneva lies in the south-west of Switzerland between the Alps and the Jura, on the French border and on Lake Geneva (Lac Lèman)? The city is a real multicultural centre with 180,000 inhabitants from 180 different nations. A large number of organisations from around the world are based in Geneva, making it a truly international city.
Did you know that Geneva's Eynard Palace hosted the Geneva Conference in July 1955? For the first time since the end of the Second World War, the leaders of the USA, the USSR, France and Great Britain agreed to meet together.
Did you know that Geneva is considered to be the birth place of the Swiss art of watch-making? The industry’s centre can be found in the Jurabogen, but the city is still seen as the "Clock City" thanks to the Salon International de la Haute Horlogerie (SIHH), an exclusive clock and watch exhibition. The products displayed are of the highest quality and are often limited edition. Geneva's link to the world of watch-making is evident throughout the city. The Flower Clock, arranged in the English Gardens in 1955, is particularly striking, as 6,500 plants make up a natural clock with a five-metre diameter.
Did you know that Lake Geneva's famous fountain can expel water at speeds of up to 200km/h? A famous Geneva landmark, the Jet d'Eau can send water spurting up to 140 metres into the air. Originally a valve designed to release pressure from a pipe system used to power machinery in a local factory, it attracted plenty of local interest and was refitted in its current location as a tourist attraction in 1891. Permanently illuminated since 1930, it is now powered by two high-pressure pumps which can force water out of the fountain at speeds of up to 200km/h.
Did you know that Geneva has some of the lowest air pollution levels in Europe? This is down to the number of parks in and around the city. These 'Green Lungs' cover some 310 hectares over the space of 36 official parks. Among the most famous of these parks is La Grange – on the left bank (Rive Gauche) of Lake Geneva – with its stunning rose gardens. Eaux-Vives – also on the left bank – is renowned for its wonderful flower beds and variety of plants.
Did you kow that Jean-Jacques Rousseau was born in Geneva? The famous author and philosopher, whose works include "Émile, or On Education" and "Discourse on the Origin and Basis of Inequality Among Men", is regarded as one of the most influential thinkers in European history. He was born in the city on 28 June 1712.
Did you know that the offices of the United Nations Organisation (UNO) are in Geneva? Around 200 international governmental and non-governmental organisations are based in Geneva. Along with the World Trade Organisation (WTO), the World Health Organisation (WHO) and the European Organisation for Core Research (CERN), Geneva is also the home of the offices of the United Nations. In the UN building, 3,000 people work for peace, security and human rights. More than 20,000 delegates are greeted annually for 7,000 sessions at the building, which is considered to be international territory.