Solothurn (city) facts for kids
Solothurn (called Soleure in French and Soletta in Italian) is a cool city in Switzerland. It's the main city of the Solothurn canton, which is like a state in Switzerland. As of December 2016, about 16,697 people lived there. Solothurn is special because it's the only city in its own district with the same name.
Quick facts for kids
Solothurn
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 Solothurn
Location in Switzerland
Solothurn
Location in Canton of Solothurn
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| Country | Switzerland | |
| Canton | Solothurn | |
| District | Solothurn | |
| Area | ||
| • Total | 6.28 km2 (2.42 sq mi) | |
| Elevation | 430 m (1,410 ft) | |
| Population
(Dec 2020 )
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| • Total | 16,802 | |
| • Density | 2,675.5/km2 (6,929/sq mi) | |
| Postal code |
4500
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| Surrounded by | Bellach, Biberist, Feldbrunnen-Sankt Niklaus, Langendorf, Rüttenen, Zuchwil | |
| Twin towns | Heilbronn (Germany), Kraków (Poland), Le Landeron (Switzerland) | |
Contents
Discover Solothurn: A Swiss Gem
Solothurn is a beautiful city in the northwest part of Switzerland. It sits right on the Aare River. The city is known for its amazing old town. This area has many buildings built in the Baroque style. It feels like stepping back in time!
Where is Solothurn Located?
Solothurn is found in the Swiss Plateau. This is a flat area between the Jura Mountains and the Alps. The city is about 430 meters (1,410 feet) above sea level. Its location makes it easy to reach from other big Swiss cities.
A Glimpse into Solothurn's History
Solothurn has a very long history. It was first a Roman settlement. Later, it became an important medieval city. It was even an "Imperial free city." This meant it was directly under the Holy Roman Emperor. It didn't have to answer to local lords.
The city joined the Old Swiss Confederacy in 1481. This was a group of states that later became modern Switzerland. Solothurn played a big role in Swiss history for centuries.
How Solothurn is Governed
Like many Swiss cities, Solothurn has its own local government. The main leader is called the Stadtpräsident, which means City President. As of March 2014, Kurt Fluri held this position. The city also has a council, called the Gemeinderat. This council has 30 members. They help make decisions for the city.
What Makes Solothurn Special?
Solothurn is famous for its number 11. Many things in the city are related to this number!
- There are 11 churches and chapels.
- You can find 11 fountains.
- The city has 11 towers.
- Even the main clock has 11 hours on its face.
This unique feature makes exploring Solothurn a fun scavenger hunt!
Fun Things to Do in Solothurn
There are many cool places to visit in Solothurn.
- The St. Ursus Cathedral is a must-see. It's a grand Baroque church. It has 11 altars and 11 bells!
- You can walk through the charming old town. Enjoy the historic buildings and narrow streets.
- The city walls are also interesting. You can still see parts of them today.
- Solothurn has museums where you can learn more about its past.
- The Aare River offers nice walks and views.
Solothurn's Connections with Other Cities
Solothurn has special friendships with other cities around the world. These are called "twin towns" or "sister cities."
- It is twinned with Heilbronn in Germany.
- It also has a connection with Kraków in Poland.
- And another Swiss town, Le Landeron, is a twin city.
These partnerships help cities learn from each other. They also promote cultural exchange.
