Lens, Switzerland facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Lens
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The village of Lens
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 Lens
Location in Switzerland
Lens
Location in Canton of Valais
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| Country | Switzerland | |
| Canton | Valais | |
| District | Sierre | |
| Area | ||
| • Total | 13.98 km2 (5.40 sq mi) | |
| Elevation | 1,129 m (3,704 ft) | |
| Population
(Dec 2020 )
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| • Total | 4,317 | |
| • Density | 308.80/km2 (799.8/sq mi) | |
| Demonym(s) | Les Lensards | |
| Postal code |
1978
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| Localities | Crans-sur-Sierre, Flanthey, Chelin | |
| Surrounded by | Saint-Léonard, Icogne, Randogne, Montana, Chermignon, Sierre | |
Lens (French pronunciation: [lɛ̃s]) is a lovely town in the canton of Valais, Switzerland. It's part of the Sierre district. This municipality is a great example of Swiss charm, combining old traditions with modern life.
Contents
Discovering Lens: A Look at Its Past
Lens was first written about in history books in 1177. Back then, it was called de Lenz. This shows that people have lived in this area for a very long time!
Exploring the Geography of Lens
Lens covers an area of about 13.9 square kilometers (5.4 square miles). A big part of this land is used for farming, about 36.4%. Forests cover another large section, about 39.4% of the area. Buildings and roads take up about 19.7% of the land. There are also small areas of rivers or lakes, and some land that isn't used for anything.
Most of the built-up areas are homes and other buildings. Roads and paths make up a smaller part. Parks and sports fields are also found here. In the forested areas, you'll find lots of trees, including orchards. Farmers use their land for crops, pastures, and vineyards.
Lens is located on the right side of the Rhone river. It includes several villages like Chelin, Flanthey, and Vaas. Part of the popular resort Crans-Montana is also within Lens.
The town sits on a hill that looks out over the valley. On a nearby hilltop, there's a tall bronze statue of Christ, about 28 meters (92 feet) high. You can walk up to the statue and visit the chapel inside its base. The path has special shrines along the way. From the top, you get amazing views of the Rhone valley, stretching far in both directions.
Understanding the Coat of Arms
The official symbol of Lens is its coat of arms. It features a blue background with four golden stars. These stars are placed around two golden keys that cross each other. This design helps represent the municipality.
People and Life in Lens: Demographics
Lens has a population of about 4,200 people (as of 2023). Many people from other countries live here too. Over the last ten years, the population has grown. Most of this growth is from people moving to Lens.
Most people in Lens speak French as their main language. Some also speak German or Italian. The population is almost evenly split between men and women. Many residents were born in Lens or nearby in the same canton. Others have moved here from different parts of Switzerland or from other countries.
About one-fifth of the population are children and teenagers (under 19 years old). Adults make up the largest group. There are also many seniors (over 64 years old) living in Lens.
Most households in Lens have about two or three people. Many homes are used for holidays, meaning they are only occupied for part of the year.
Important Sights in Lens
The entire village of Lens is recognized as an important Swiss heritage site. This means it has special historical and cultural value.
Economy: How People Work in Lens
Lens has a low unemployment rate, which is good news for jobs. Many people work in different types of jobs here.
- Primary Sector: This includes jobs like farming. There are many small businesses in this area.
- Secondary Sector: These jobs involve making things or building. This includes manufacturing and construction.
- Tertiary Sector: This is the largest group of jobs. It includes things like sales, transportation, hotels, restaurants, and healthcare. Many people work in these service industries.
Many people who live in Lens travel to other towns for work. However, many also come to Lens to work. This shows that Lens is an important place for jobs in the region. Most people use private cars to get to work, but some also use public transportation.
Religion in Lens
Most people in Lens are Roman Catholic. A smaller number belong to the Swiss Reformed Church. There are also people who follow other Christian faiths, as well as Judaism and Islam. Some people do not belong to any church.
Education in Lens
Many adults in Lens have completed high school. A good number have also gone on to higher education, like university or specialized colleges. This shows a strong focus on learning in the community.
Some students from Lens go to schools in other towns. Also, some students from other towns come to Lens for their education.
See also
In Spanish: Lens (Suiza) para niños
