Canton of Fribourg, Administrative canton in western Switzerland.
The Canton of Fribourg lies in western Switzerland and covers seven administrative districts between the plateau and the pre-Alpine ranges. The landscape shifts from flat plains in the north to forested hills and higher mountain ridges in the south.
The region joined the Swiss Confederation in 1481 and acquired its present borders with the addition of the Murten area in 1803. Territorial expansion shaped a canton that unites French-speaking and German-speaking communities.
French speakers make up most of the population in the western districts, while German predominates in eastern towns and villages. Visitors notice the bilingual character in street signs, public announcements, and daily conversations, reflecting the coexistence of both language communities.
Motorways and train lines connect the cantonal capital with other Swiss cities, making the region accessible for travelers. Public transport also reaches smaller towns in the mountainous areas south of the capital.
The Gruyère district in the southern part of the canton gives its name to the famous hard cheese, still produced in small village dairies using traditional methods. Visitors can see the typical alpine huts where cheesemakers process milk during the summer months.
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