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Ticino is one of the most historical and beautiful cantons in Switzerland. Although it has been a part of Switzerland since 1803, Ticino remains one of the unique cantons in the country. This is because Ticino’s official language is Italian. The reason for the Italian heritage of the canton lies in the centuries of conflict and wars between many nations and states that lived in the region.
The canton of Ticino is one of the 26 cantons of Switzerland. It has a population of nearly 400,000 and is the only canton where Italian is the only official language. Moreover, it is the southernmost canton, completely lies on the Alps, and serves as the border between Italy and Switzerland. Due to its proximity to the Italian border, it caused a lot of conflicts between the Italians and the Swiss.
Between 1100 and the early 1500s, Ticino belonged to the Dukes of Milan. However, during that time, the raids by the Uri canton increased in number and Milan lost some of the parts to Switzerland. In the following centuries, the Swiss federation gradually annexed all of Ticino. The region became the last land the Swiss ever conquered in their history.
The capital of Ticino is the city of Bellinzona. Bellinzona has been a UNESCO heritage site since 2000 due to its medieval castles and historic identity. One of the most famous of these castles is the series of fortifications known as the Castles of Bellinzona.
Ticino is home to some impressive sights, both natural and cultural. Firstly, it has the Gotthard Pass, one of the most dangerous roads in Europe. The Gotthard Pass is a mountain pass in the Alps that connects Northern Switzerland to Southern Switzerland.
Ticino also has Corippo, the smallest village in Switzerland. It has a population of only 12 people. It is famous for its beautiful nature and environment surrounding the stone-roofed houses. Corippo has managed to protect its medieval heritage which makes it an impressive destination for tourists as well.
In Corippo, Ticino, 4 out of the total 12 inhabitants form the governing body: 1 mayor and 3 council members. The town also has a church and a restaurant.
With its castles, towns, villages, and nature, Ticino is an impressive and unique part of Switzerland. Located on the Alps and the border between Italy and Switzerland, it has reflected traces of both heritages and cultures which form their cultural identity.
