Restoration Day in Switzerland ― Date, History, and Details
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Let's dive deeper into learning more about the history of Restoration Day in Switzerland and why people celebrate or observe it.
History of Restoration Day in Switzerland and How to Celebrate/ Observe It
Switzerland celebrates Restoration Day on August 1st each year. This public holiday commemorates the return of the Swiss Confederacy to a federal system in 1815, after the Napoleonic Wars.
The Swiss Confederation was founded in 1291 as an alliance between three cantons in central Switzerland. Over time, more cantons joined the confederation and it grew in power. In 1798, the French Revolutionary Army invaded Switzerland and the Swiss Confederation was dissolved. The country was then divided into cantonal republics.
In 1803, Napoleon Bonaparte became the Emperor of France and began to expand his empire. He annexed several Swiss cantons to France and made others into satellite states. In 1813, Napoleon was defeated in the Battle of Leipzig and the Swiss Confederation was restored.
However, the old federal system was no longer feasible. The Congress of Vienna (1814-1815) redrew the map of Europe and created several new countries. Switzerland was re-established as a federal state with 26 cantons.
Restoration Day is a national holiday in Switzerland. It is celebrated with parades, concerts and other events.