Swiss perspectives in 10 languages

Toblerone Trail

Opinions are divided over how Switzerland was able to stay out of World War 2. Some say it was the country’s armed neutrality; others believe it had more to do with the country’s banking and financial facilities, what were beneficial to the Nazi’s. Whatever the case, it is undeniable that Switzerland maintained a very substantial military deterrent at the time, which included a wide range of fortifications. One of the most famous – and one which is still highly visible – is a line of concrete tank barriers constructed in the western part of the country. They’re shaped like the famous Toblerone chocolate bars, which gave rise to their nickname ‘The Toblerone Trail’. Swiss Radio International Roy Probert braved heavy rain to see them.

You can find an overview of ongoing debates with our journalists here . Please join us!

If you want to start a conversation about a topic raised in this article or want to report factual errors, email us at english@swissinfo.ch.

SWI swissinfo.ch - a branch of Swiss Broadcasting Corporation SRG SSR

SWI swissinfo.ch - a branch of Swiss Broadcasting Corporation SRG SSR