Marching madness

Fasnacht (Basel Carnival)

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March 9th 2006
OK since we've returned from South Africa, we are back in the winter zone of Basel, but now it's the beginning of the end of winter, because Fasnacht is upon us. Running annually since perhaps the 11th century, Fasnacht is the beginning of the fasting season of lent (although the Swiss are primarily non-Catholic). The festival, which begins the Monday after Mardi Gras (Fat Tuesday) is marked by ... read more

Europe » Switzerland » North-West » Basel

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The Swiss Confederation was founded in 1291 as a defensive alliance among three cantons. In succeeding years, other localities joined the original three. The Swiss Confederation secured its independence from the Holy Roman Empire in 1499. Switzerland... ... read more