Zurich: History & Tradition
Way back in 1351, Zurich joined the Swiss Confederacy to protect itself from the Habsburgs. This "Old Swiss Confederacy" was a loose political and military network of allies. Expansion during the 14th and 15th centuries took Zurich to its present-day size as a Canton. Most of this territory was added by purchase or distraint. Until the mid-15th century, Zurich's political leanings alternated between Austria and the Confederacy. In 1519 the Reformation, under Zwingli's leadership, opened a new chapter in the history of Zurich. The influence of Huldrych Zwingli and Heinrich Bullinger made the Canton and, especially, the City of Zurich, important at European level. As a result of the Reformation, Protestant refugees from Ticino (1555) and Huguenots from France (1685) helped the Canton to achieve a new economic upturn.
Tradition – the Zurich Knabenschiessen
Did you know that there has been a king in Zurich for more than a century? And that there is a new one every year? Just in case this is news to you, do visit the "Knabenschiessen" during your visit to Zurich. This is the marksmanship contest which takes place every year in September.
Culinary tradition
Zürcher Geschnetzeltes with Rösti
Tender, succulent veal with a light-coloured sauce of cream, mushrooms and white wine is one of the most popular and best-known Swiss dishes. A crisp rösti is traditionally served with this dish.
Print recipe (141 KB)
Traditional products
- Offlete
- Triggel
- Zurich bread
- Rosoli
