Throughout the Middle Ages, Geneva began to grow in importance. Iin the 15th century, the famous Geneva fairs earned the city a reputation as a significant trading centre. The house of Savoy controlled the town until a citizens uprising in the 15th century led to Geneva being granted independence.

The Genevois accepted the Reformation in 1535 and soon after that, Jean Calvin made his first visit to the city to assist with these matters. There was considerable opposition to Calvin and despite being expelled he eventually succeeded in establishing a strict protestant regime.

The year 1602 is an important date in Genevan history, the Duke of Savoy made a failed attempt to retake the city and this event is still celebrated today as a reminder of the independent and fighting spirit. Refugees still continued to be drawn to the city playing an important role in the development of banking, commerce and clock making which were the most important industries here.

In 1798, six years after the declaration of a republic with ‘political equality for all’, Geneva was taken by the French, a period which lasted until the defeat of Napoleon in 1813. By 1815, Geneva had joined the Swiss Confederation and the next phase in the city’s history began.

At the end of WWI, Geneva was selected to be the headquarters for the League of Nations and later as the European headquarters for the United Nations.

Today, Geneva continues to hold the European headquarters of the UN, among other international organisations, and is a slick modern city. Tourists are attracted to the city by the impressive architecture, the range of attractions, the beauty of Lake Geneva, and of course the proximity to some fine ski resorts.