Time Zone |
Europe/Zurich |
Standard Time GMT / UTC |
UTC+1 |
Daylight Saving Time |
UTC+2 |
Time Zone |
America/Chicago |
Standard Time GMT / UTC |
UTC-6 |
Daylight Saving Time |
UTC-5 |
Bern, the capital of the Swiss Confederation, is located in the west of the country on the banks of the Aare River and is the capital of the canton of Bern. As the political center of Switzerland, the federal government agencies and foreign embassies are located here. The city is famous for its well-preserved medieval old town, which was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983.
Founded in 1191, the city's name derives from the German word "Bär" (bear), which is often depicted in the city's symbols and fountains. The Old Town, with its 6 kilometers of arcade streets, Renaissance fountains and famous clock tower (Zytglogge), attracts many visitors. Albert Einstein lived here and developed his theory of relativity, and his former home is now open as a museum.
Economically, Bern is dominated by the service, precision instrument and pharmaceutical industries, and is an important conference and tourist destination. The city's beautiful setting, surrounded by hills and rivers, offers a wealth of outdoor activities. Bern combines historical heritage, cultural charm and modern functionality, reflecting the high quality of life and efficient governance of Switzerland.
Located in the Midwestern United States, Chicago is the largest city in Illinois and the third largest city in the United States. As a major economic, cultural and transportation hub, Chicago is known for its distinctive architecture, rich art scene and spectacular skyline along Lake Michigan. Iconic attractions include the "Cloud Gate" sculpture in Millennium Park, the Willis Tower observation deck and Navy Pier. The city has a culinary culture that includes deep-dish pizza and is one of the birthplaces of blues music and modern architecture. Its four-season climate and diverse neighborhoods make it a popular destination for global travelers and business investment.