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SWITZERLAND BIEL/BIENNE On the northern shore of Bienne lake, you can stroll along ‘Grape Road’ and get yourself schooled in all things, wine, at the fabulous Ligerz Wine Museum. Biel/Bienne is not far from the deep green, hilly landscape of the Jura with its extensive forest and dazzling views. On top of that, the surroundings of Biel/Bienne is heaven for the sports enthusiast and for that reason alone, worth a visit. The historical city center of Biel/Bienne was built between 1220 and 1230 by the prince and archbishop of Basel. It wasn’t until the second half of the nineteenth century, after the construction of a railway, that Biel/Bienne started to grow. The city took the initiative and built large factories bringing industry to the area. These factory spaces became the roots of the watch world. Along with watches, the area also began to develop and manufacture other precision instruments. The reason behind this concentrated kind of crafting quite simply goes back to the weather. Farmers who found themselves snowed in, kept busy with woodcarving and the manufacturing of wooden cuckoo clocks. This is why and how some of the greatest clockwork craftsmen hail from the region. As the nineteenth century economy grew, these craftsmen were attracted to life in the city. The advantages of Biel/Bienne in particular, were its vast resources for metal along with the new trade route. And here is how the watch industry began. The modern part of the city is bustling and stretches all the way to the lake, while the old city center with the gothic church is scenically situated against the hill. It was here, in this inspiring environment, that in 1914 Glycine set up shop. For decades now, Glycine has been producing extraordinary watch collections from their factory in Biel/Bienne and have constantly and seamlessly transitioned throughout the years, standing all the tests of time. CUBA BAR CAFÉ BIEL In the mood for something with a kick? Cuba Bar is the place for enjoying the special kick and flair of Mexican cusine. Address Bahnhofstrasse 42, 2502 Biel, Switzerland Telefoon +41 323230550 CAFÉ BAR CECIL Since 1936 this bar has been a favorite, all in one meeting point in Biel. It is THE place to be. Address Bahnhofstrasse 20, 2502 Biel, Switzerland Website lececil.ch

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