Geography of Lausanne
Lausanne, Switzerland, the capital of Vaud canton (state). It is situated on hills along Lake Geneva near the Alps. Located here are the University of Lausanne, the Federal Polytechnical College, and the Federal Supreme Court. There are also specialized schools and museums. The Cathedral of Notre Dame, consecrated in 1275, is the city's chief landmark.
The lakefront, particularly that in the suburb of Ouchy, is a popular resort area with luxury hotels. Several important trade fairs are held in Lausanne each year. Processed foods and wines are among the city's products.
Lausanne was a Celtic settlement in Roman times. In the sixth century A.D. the city became the seat of a bishop. It became a Protestant city after being conquered by Bern in 1536. The city became the capital of Vaud canton in 1803.
Population: 123,149.