Canton of Geneva

The Canton of Geneva is a French-speaking territory in the far west of Switzerland, stretching along Lake Geneva and the Rhone River. The region includes both urban neighborhoods around the capital and smaller municipalities in more rural areas, all forming this administrative district together.

The territory joined the Swiss Confederation in 1815 after the Congress of Vienna, ending a long period under different rulers. Integration into Switzerland brought a new political order and recognition as an equal part of the confederation.

The name comes from the city of Geneva, whose Celtic roots reach back to the first century BCE. People live mainly in French and maintain their connection to the French-speaking world while also identifying as part of Switzerland.

Anyone living in the canton must register with local authorities within a few months and obtain health insurance. These steps are mandatory for all newcomers and are monitored directly by the municipalities.

The geographical position separates the territory almost entirely from the rest of Switzerland, with only a narrow land connection to the north. This feature shapes the identity and daily connections of residents, who often must cross French and Swiss territory.

Location: Switzerland

Inception: 1815

Capital city: Geneva

Elevation above the sea: 375 m

Reference: GE

Part of: Romandy, Lake Geneva region, Métropole lémanique

Shares border with: Canton of Vaud, Ain, Haute-Savoie, Rhône-Alpes, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes

Website: https://ge.ch

GPS coordinates: 46.21800,6.16600

Latest update: December 12, 2025 23:30