Winterthur, Protected heritage city in Zurich metropolitan area, Switzerland
This Swiss city in Canton Zurich includes seven districts ranging from the old town to residential neighborhoods. The compact center lies nestled between gentle hills, surrounded by forests and open fields.
A settlement called Vitudurum existed here during Roman times, later expanded by medieval counts. Nearby Kyburg emerged in the tenth century as the seat of power.
The city takes its name from the Celtic word for forest, reflecting the woodland surroundings of the area. Visitors quickly notice the many parks and green spaces that still shape life here today.
The main station offers direct connections to Zurich and other Swiss cities with regular train service. The center is easy to explore on foot, with most sites close to one another.
The administration won the title European City of Trees in 2016 for programs protecting and maintaining urban forests. The award recognized decades of consistent work to bring more greenery into the cityscape.
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