OVERVIEW
Zurich, the largest city in Switzerland and the capital of the canton of Zurich, is situated in north-central Switzerland at the northwestern tip of Lake Zurich. As of January 2023, the municipality had a population of 443,037, with the urban area reaching 1.315 million in 2009 and the Zurich metropolitan area totaling 1.83 million in 2011. Known for its excellent transportation infrastructure, Zurich serves as a major hub for railways, roads, and air traffic, with Zurich Airport and the city's main railway station being the largest and busiest in the country.
Having been permanently settled for over 2,000 years, Zurich was originally founded by the Romans and called Turicum. However, archaeological evidence suggests that early settlements in the area date back more than 6,400 years, although they may not have constituted a town at that time. During the Middle Ages, Zurich gained independence and the privileged status of imperial immediacy. In 1519, it became a significant center of the Protestant Reformation in Europe under the leadership of Huldrych Zwingli.
While the official language of Zurich is German, the main spoken language is Zurich German, which is a local variant of the Alemannic Swiss German dialect. The city boasts numerous museums and art galleries, including the Swiss National Museum and Kunsthaus. The Schauspielhaus Zurich is widely regarded as one of the most important theaters in the German-speaking world.
As one of Switzerland's primary financial centers, Zurich is home to a multitude of financial institutions and banking companies. Its thriving financial sector contributes to the city's economic prominence and global reputation.
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