Ask anyone from Geneva what the most important date in their history is and they will always say 1602!
Every year from November onwards, you cannot miss the chocolate cauldrons with marzipan vegetables and the numerous preparations for ctivities and events around “l’Escalade”, including one of the largest costumed parade in Europe.
What happened on the night of 11-12 December 1602?
Let’s travel back to 17th century Geneva and relive this story which has marked the identity of the Republic. We will meet the main characters of this historical event and follow their footsteps as the plot unfolds in the heart of the old city.
Each November and December, companies, groups of friends and families enjoy following a guide in costume taking them into the dark Old Town at night - the experience can finish with the ritual of “casser la marmite en chocolat” or breaking the chocolate pot (non-Genevans need to take the tour to understand).
From Place de la Madeleine to Corraterie in the Rues-Basses.
Visite 1h30
CHF 200 for the tour
Physically accessible for everyone, although there are some uphill paths and cobblestone streets in the Old Town.