Self-Guided Audio Tour to the Many Faces of Geneva

Pride and love, gluttony and moderation, justice and anger, envy and courage go hand in hand in Geneva. In this tour you will not only manage to see all the main sights of this city, but also look at them from a different angle — from the perspective of human vices and virtues. The monument in honour of Empress Elisabeth ”Sissi”, who was stabbed to death, is located not far from the “doing a good deed” Jet d'Eau fountain. The monument to Jean-Jacques Rousseau reminds visitors of a man who promoted ideas of social equality, but at the same time confessed to affairs with married women and masochism. The building known to serve as a shelter to orphans and bread for the poor in the Middle Ages was also used to lock up beggars and the insane, but the theologians depicted on the Reformation Wall were later taunted with inflexibility, mercilessness and heartlessness. We will guide you through the key places of Geneva and tell the true story of the real people and their sins and virtues.

1. 1

   La statue de Sissi Geneve

   10 min

   Embark on this captivating journey starting near the statue honoring the empress tragically taken by an anarchist. Uncover the intricate details of this event, delving into the how and, more importantly, the why.

2. 2

   Jet d'Eau

   5 min

   Marvel at one of the world's largest fountains, pondering its contribution to making the world a better place.

3. 3

   Brunswick Monument

   5 min

   Proceed to a monument dedicated by a generous benefactor, exploring the significance of his donation and discovering images of virtues adorning the structure.

4. 4

   Statue de Jean-Jacques Rousseau

   10 min

   Encounter the monument commemorating Jean-Jacques Rousseau, delving into the sins he openly confessed.

5. 5

   Monument National

   5 min

   Venture to the National Monument and unravel the story behind its triumphant selection in a competition for erection.

6. 6

   The Flower Clock

   10 min

   Take a moment with the Flower Clock, unveiling its ties to the concept of pride.

7. 7

   Evangelical Lutheran Church Of Geneva

   5 min

   Explore the Lutheran church, delving into diverse religious perspectives on the impact of sins and good deeds on an individual's salvation. Adjacent to the church lies the Palace of Justice, where the profound connection to mercy will be unveiled.

8. 8

   Place du Bourg-de-Four

   10 min

   Embark on a discovery of the monument representing a Genevan champion for justice, unraveling the history of past red-light districts.

9. 9

   Cathedrale Saint Pierre

   20 min

   Gaze upon St. Pierre Cathedral, understanding its association with the virtue of temperance. Explore the statue of the Prophet Jeremiah, often referred to as "the weeping prophet." Progress to the Town Hall building, where the stone bench witnessed the pronouncement of death sentences by Geneva's judges.

10. 10

    Reformation Wall

    10 min

    Journey to the Reformation Wall, learning which theologians faced criticism for inflexibility, mercilessness, and heartlessness.

11. 11

    Statue General Guillaume-Henri Dufour

    5 min

    Witness the statue of Guillaume-Henri Dufour, gaining insight into his valiant struggle against evil.

12. 12

    Buste Henri Dunant

    10 min

    Encounter the bust of a Red Cross founder, discovering the intricacies of his life and uncovering surprising parallels with Leo Tolstoy.

13. 13

    Fontaine de l'Escalade ou de Bel-Air

    5 min

    Conclude your tour with a visit to the fountain that stands as a testament to the courage of the Genevans.

• Service animals allowed
• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.