Zurich is one of the oldest and most important cities in Switzerland. It is picturesquely situated in the north-eastern part of the country, on Lake Zurich and the two rivers – Limmat and Sihl. Zurich became the most important city of the region in the Middle Ages as a silk and wool center. Beautiful houses of Zurich merchants and guild halls are now among the most beautiful buildings in the old town. In the 16th century the city become an important center of culture and science. The local university is today the most important institution of higher education in the country, whereas Swiss Federal Institute of Technology in Zurich is one of the world leaders.
