Valais

Valais

Map of the canton of Valais

Valais (French) or Wallis (German) is one of the 26 cantons of Switzerland. It is located in the southwestern part of the country, encompassing the valley of the Rhône River from its source at the Rhone Glacier to Lake Geneva. The canton is known for its stunning alpine landscapes, rich history, and cultural diversity.

Geography

Valais is characterized by its mountainous terrain, with the Pennine Alps to the south and the Bernese Alps to the north. The canton is home to some of the highest peaks in the Alps, including the Dufourspitze and the Matterhorn. The Rhône River flows through the canton, providing a fertile valley that supports agriculture and viticulture.

Valère Castle in Sion

The canton is divided into several regions, each with its own unique geography and climate. The Upper Valais (Oberwallis) is predominantly German-speaking, while the Lower Valais (Bas-Valais) is French-speaking. The capital of Valais is Sion, a city known for its historical landmarks, including the Valère Basilica and the Tourbillon Castle.

History

The history of Valais dates back to prehistoric times, with evidence of human settlement in the region for thousands of years. During the Roman era, the region was known as Vallis Poenina and was an important route through the Alps.

In the Middle Ages, Valais was a contested region, with various powers vying for control. The Bishop of Sion played a significant role in the region's governance. By the 13th century, the Seven Tithings (Sieben Zenden) formed a confederation that laid the groundwork for the modern canton.

Map of Valais in 1545

Valais joined the Swiss Confederation in 1815 as a full member. The canton has since developed a strong identity, balancing its cultural diversity with a unified regional pride.

Economy

The economy of Valais is diverse, with agriculture, tourism, and industry playing key roles. The fertile Rhône Valley is ideal for growing fruits, vegetables, and grapes, making Valais one of Switzerland's premier wine-producing regions.

Tourism is a major economic driver, with visitors flocking to the canton for skiing, hiking, and enjoying the natural beauty of the Alps. Popular destinations include Zermatt, Verbier, and Crans-Montana.

The canton also has a significant industrial sector, with energy production being particularly important. The Grande Dixence Dam, one of the world's tallest gravity dams, is located in Valais and is a key source of hydroelectric power.

Culture

Valais is culturally rich, with a blend of French and German influences. The canton celebrates numerous traditional festivals, such as the Fête de la Saint-Martin and the Cow Fighting competitions, which are unique to the region.

The canton is also known for its culinary specialties, including raclette, a dish made from melted cheese, and dried meat products such as viande séchée.

Related pages

• Sion, Switzerland
• Matterhorn
• Swiss Confederation
• Pennine Alps