Page 32 - (DK Eyewitness) Travel Guide - Switzerland

Blowing the Alphorn
A Swiss version of the didgeridoo, the
alphorn was traditionally used by
farmers to call their cows in for milking.
In the 19th century alphorns became
popular as musical instruments and there
are now alphorn groups all over
the country. Each year the Nendaz
Alphorn Festival gathers many of these
DISCOVER Switzerland Your Way also hold alphorn initiation courses.
musicians together for a competitive
three-day event where visitors can
hear them play and join an alphorn-
making workshop. The organizers

Musicians in
traditional dress at
the Alphorn Festival

SWITZERLAND FOR
TRADITIONS

A forward-looking country in many ways, Switzerland is nonetheless rooted
in tradition. While not everyone can yodel, there’s a sense of pride around
these customs and people flock to festivals that celebrate them. For
visitors, they offer a fascinating glimpse into Switzerland’s rural heart.

Wrestle With It
A sport dating back centuries,
Schwingen (Swiss wrestling)
pits two opponents against
each other in a circle filled
with saw dust. It has been a
key feature of many rural
festivals but the biggest
event is Schwingfest, held
every three years in front
of thousands of people.

Two Schwingen competitors
in the village of Boltigen

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