Bernese Jura facts for kids
The Bernese Jura (German: Berner Jura, French: Jura Bernois) is a special part of the canton of Bern in Switzerland. It's a region where people mainly speak French. This area was created after the canton of Jura became its own separate canton from Bern.
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About the Bernese Jura
The Bernese Jura is made up of three smaller areas called districts: Courtelary, La Neuveville, and Moutier. Most people living here are Protestants. They made an important choice in 1979 to stay connected with the canton of Bern.
Where is it?
The Bernese Jura is located in the northwestern part of Switzerland. It's nestled in the Jura Mountains, which are a mountain range that stretches across parts of France, Switzerland, and Germany. This region is known for its beautiful landscapes, including rolling hills, deep valleys, and forests.
Why is it special?
What makes the Bernese Jura unique is its language and history. Even though it's part of the canton of Bern, where German is the main language, the Bernese Jura is a French-speaking area. This difference in language is a big part of its identity. It's a place where two cultures meet and live together.
Its History
The history of the Bernese Jura is closely tied to the larger region of the Jura. For a long time, this area was part of the Prince-Bishopric of Basel, which was a territory ruled by a bishop. Later, during the 19th century, it became part of the canton of Bern.
Choosing a Home
In the 1970s, there was a big discussion about whether the French-speaking parts of the canton of Bern should form their own canton. This led to the creation of the canton of Jura in 1979. However, the people in the Bernese Jura had a choice. They voted to remain part of the canton of Bern. This decision showed their strong connection to Bern, even with their different language and culture. Today, the Bernese Jura continues to be a vibrant and important part of the canton of Bern.
Images for kids
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Territories of the bishopric of Basel in the 16th century
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Gorges du Pichou
