Biel (district) facts for kids
Biel, also known as Bienne, is a fascinating city in Switzerland. It's located in the canton of Bern, which is like a state or province in other countries. Biel is special because it's a place where two main languages are spoken: German and French. This makes it a very unique and multicultural city!
Biel used to be a "district," which is a bit like a county or a smaller administrative area. However, Switzerland changed its system, and now Biel is part of a larger administrative region. It's known for its beautiful location near a lake and its important role in watchmaking.
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What is a District?
A district is a way to divide a larger area, like a canton, into smaller parts. Think of it like dividing a big school into different classes or grades. Each district used to have its own local government that helped manage things like schools, roads, and public services for the people living there.
Biel was once a district that included two main municipalities: Biel/Bienne itself and Evilard. A municipality is an even smaller local area, like a town or a village, with its own local government.
Municipalities of the Former Biel District
Here are the municipalities that were part of the former Biel district:
| Municipality | Population* | Area (km²) |
|---|---|---|
| Biel/Bienne | 50,407 | 21.60 |
| Evilard | 2,312 | 3.70 |
| * - Population as of January 1, 2005 | ||
Understanding Population and Area
The "Population" column tells you how many people lived in each municipality in 2005. The "Area" column shows how big each municipality is in square kilometers. For example, Biel/Bienne is much larger and has many more people than Evilard.
Biel's Special Location
Biel is located right on the shores of Lake Biel, which is one of the three large lakes in the Jura region of Switzerland. This makes it a great spot for water sports and enjoying nature. The city is also surrounded by hills and vineyards, making the landscape very picturesque.
A City of Two Languages
One of the most interesting things about Biel is its bilingual nature. Both German and French are official languages here. You'll hear people speaking both languages in the streets, and signs are often in both languages too. This mix of cultures adds to the city's unique charm.
Why Two Languages?
Switzerland has four national languages: German, French, Italian, and Romansh. Different regions of Switzerland speak different languages. Biel is located right on the border between the German-speaking and French-speaking parts of the country, which is why both languages are so important there.
What is Biel Known For?
Biel is famous for several things, especially its connection to the watchmaking industry. Many well-known Swiss watch brands have their headquarters or factories in Biel.
The Watchmaking Capital
For a long time, Biel has been a center for making high-quality watches. This industry has brought many skilled workers and businesses to the city. Even today, watchmaking is a very important part of Biel's economy and identity.
Other Industries in Biel
Besides watches, Biel is also home to other industries, including metalworking and precision mechanics. It's a city that combines traditional craftsmanship with modern technology.
