Sion, known as Sitten in German, is the capital city of Canton Valais, and is centrally located on the flat, fertile, floor of the Rhone Valley. Sion is more of an economic and administrative hub and market centre than a tourist destination, although it is an alluring and attractive historic city and where you can see and experience a genuine Swiss city without the touristy trappings.
It is home to approximately 30,000 inhabitants, and is the main economic centre of the region attracting many workers from outlying areas, and is the centre of the largest wine growing area of Switzerland, due primarily to its dry and sunny climate. Visitors are attracted by the well preserved and picturesque ‘old town’ area which backs onto and is dominated by two jutting, steep, rocky hills both of which are home to medieval castles which are lit at night and look awe inspiring!!
The 12th century fortified Church of Notre Dame de Valere and village that lies above the town on top of one of these steep hills at 120 metres, is home to the oldest playable organ in the world, dating from 1390, along with a cantonal museum that houses prehistoric objects, Roman artworks and furniture from the days when Sion's bishops lived and ruled like princes!! As you make your way to the top of this hill you will see the 14th century Chapelle de Tous les Saints, and the massive Roman foundation walls of the Church above. On top of the other, higher and even more impressive steep hill, are the ruins of the 13th century Chateau de Tourbillon, which stands as ruins after being damaged by fire in the 18th century.
These castle ruins are a great place from where great views of the city and the Church of Notre Dame de Valere can be enjoyed and an overview of the valley and surrounding mountains. Sion is also home to several other places of interest such as the Art Museum in the Chateau de la Majorie, the 12th century Cathedrale Notre Dame du Glarier, the 17th century Hotel de Ville or City Hall and the Maison Supersaxo with it’s extraordinary carved ceiling and where you can get a taste of 16th century luxury living, or maybe just have a look at the Tower of Wizard’s a 12th century relic of the original fortified city walls!! Or to turn the clock back a little further take a look at the some of the dolmens and standing stones which have survived since Neolithic times or the Roman ruins that lie in the basement of the St Theodule Church!! For something a little different why not visit the Natural History Museum, which contains recently discovered dinosaur fossils!!
Home to many social activities and festivals, the town has a unique atmosphere due perhaps to the down to earth attitude, individuality and taciturn nature of the people!!
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