Welcome to the heart of Geneva, where you’ll discover the enchanting district of Cité – Geneva City Centre.
As you wander through the narrow streets, immerse yourself in the medieval charm that surrounds you.
From the iconic Saint-Pierre Cathedral to the bustling shopping streets, Cité is a treasure trove of history and culture.
Join us as we explore the hidden gems and vibrant spirit of Cité – Geneva City Centre.
Overview of Geneva-Cité Districts
Take a look at the districts that make up Geneva-Cité.
Geneva-Cité is a historic district located in the city center of Geneva. It’s divided into four main districts: Cité-centre, Saint-Gervais – Chantepoulet, Délices – Grottes, and Pâquis – Navigation.
The Cité-centre district is the heart of the city, known for its historic core and the iconic Saint-Pierre cathedral. On the left bank of the Rhône, you’ll find the upper town or Cité, with its charming streets and squares. On the right bank, the Saint-Gervais district adds to the medieval old town.
The district of Délices – Grottes is known for its vibrant atmosphere, while Pâquis – Navigation offers a lively lakeside experience.
Together, these districts form the vibrant and diverse Geneva-Cité.
Historical Significance of Cité-Centre
Moving on to the historical significance of Cité-Centre, let’s delve into its rich past and explore the role it played in shaping the city of Geneva.
The Cité-Centre district, also known as the upper town or old town, holds a special place in Geneva’s history. It was first home to the oppidum of Genava, inhabited by the Allobroges, and later became a Roman town and a fortified medieval city. The district was surrounded by ramparts until the 19th century when they were demolished.
Today, Cité-Centre and the Saint-Gervais district form the heart of Geneva’s old town. The district’s historic buildings, squares, and secret passages offer a glimpse into the city’s medieval heritage and the stories of its inhabitants.
Geography of Cité-Centre Neighborhood
What defines the geographical boundaries of the Cité-Centre neighborhood in Geneva?
The Cité-Centre neighborhood is divided into four main parts.
The first is the upper town or Cité, which is located on a hill overlooking Geneva and is dominated by the silhouette of Saint-Pierre cathedral.
The second part is the lower town, which includes the Rues basses and Rive districts. These districts are home to the main shopping streets and some of the city’s oldest squares.
The third part is the Tranchées and Saint-Léger districts, located on the site of Geneva’s former eastern fortifications.
Lastly, there’s the Hollande banking district and the area surrounding the Parc des Bastions.
Together, these parts make up the Cité-Centre neighborhood, which occupies the left bank of the Rhône.
Institutions and Landmarks in Cité-Centre
Explore the institutions and landmarks in Cité-Centre, the historic city center of Geneva. One of the most iconic landmarks in Cité-Centre is the St. Peter’s Cathedral. This historical landmark, built in the 12th century, stands tall and dominates the city. You can climb 157 steps to reach the top of the tower and enjoy a panoramic view of Geneva.
Inside the cathedral, there’s an archaeological site that will fascinate the curious.
Another notable place is the Place Bourg-de-Four, the oldest square in Geneva. It’s a charming spot to relax and have a drink on a terrace while taking in the friendly atmosphere of the Old Town.
Lastly, don’t miss the secret passages of the Old Town, which were used in the past for various purposes such as escaping or spying. One famous passage is the Passage de Monetier, open to the public during the Fête de l’Escalade, a festival that commemorates Geneva’s victory.
Hidden Treasures in Geneva’s Old Town
Discover the numerous hidden treasures that lie within Geneva’s Old Town, offering a wealth of history, culture, and enchantment for you to explore.
Start your journey at St. Peter’s Cathedral, a historical landmark that dominates the Old Town. Climb the 157 steps to the top of the tower for a panoramic view of the city. Don’t miss the archaeological site in the cathedral’s basement.
Visit Place Bourg-de-Four, the oldest square in Geneva, where you can enjoy a drink on a terrace and admire the charming narrow houses.
Delve into the mystery of the secret passages that crisscross the Old Town, used in the past for espionage and escape. One of the most famous passages, the Passage de Monetier, is open to the public during the Fête de l’Escalade.
Immerse yourself in Geneva’s history and indulge in the tradition of the chocolate marmite, a delight enjoyed by all Genevans during the festival.
Saint-Pierre Cathedral and Its Rich History
Learn about the rich history of Saint-Pierre Cathedral, a historical landmark in Geneva’s Old Town. Built in the 12th century, the cathedral has undergone numerous transformations over the centuries, becoming the symbol of the Protestant Reformation.
Dominating Geneva from the heart of the Old Town, St. Peter’s Cathedral offers a panoramic view from its tower, reached by climbing 157 steps. The cathedral’s most famous bell, La Clémence, weighs 6 tons and traditionally protects the cathedral with its prayers.
In the basement, an archaeological site awaits the curious. Concerts are held throughout the year, immersing visitors in the cathedral’s historic atmosphere.
Don’t miss the oldest square in Geneva, Place Bourg-de-Four, where you can enjoy a drink on a terrace and admire the typical narrow houses that characterize the city.
The Fête De L’escalade and Geneva’s Chocolate Tradition
Indulge in Geneva’s chocolate tradition during the Fête De L’escalade, where you can savor the city’s famous chocolate marmite and celebrate its victory over the Duke of Savoy’s troops in 1602.
The Fête De L’escalade is a festival celebrated every December to commemorate Geneva’s triumph. During this festival, a procession of costumed individuals parades through Geneva’s old town. But the highlight of the celebration is the chocolate marmite.
Legend has it that a brave cook named Mother Royaume poured a pot of vegetable soup on the head of a Savoyard soldier to defend the city. This act of courage gave birth to the tradition of the chocolate pot.
In Geneva households, the oldest and youngest members break the marzipan-filled pot, exclaiming, ‘Thus perished the enemies of the Republic.’
