Traditionally
Switzerland has not been considered one of the cultural centers of Europe
It is known more for cleanliness, punctuality, discipline and and high degree of consciousness about the environment than for its artistic achievements
But in recent times, its commitment to peace is what has drawn artists looking for a safe haven in which to do their creative work. During the rise of fascism in the 1930s and 1940s a number of German, Austrian and Italian migrated to Switzerland including Thomas Mann, Stefan George, Herman Hesse, and Ignazio Silone.
A multi-cultural nation, Switzerland’s national identity is shaped by a variety of influences including those of German, French and Italian neighbours.