Switzerland's Gotthard: The Mountain That Built a Nation

In this episode, Lucas and Luna explore the history of the Gotthard Pass, the treacherous Alpine route that transformed Switzerland from a poor confederation into a wealthy hub of European trade. They trace the earliest trailblazers who carved a path through the Schöllenen Gorge, the construction of the legendary Teufelsbrücke, and the rise of the pass as a vital corridor for goods and pilgrims. The conversation also delves into the strategic importance of the Gotthard for Swiss independence, the 19th-century rail tunnel that cemented its role, and the modern Gotthard Base Tunnel that now links Northern and Southern Europe. Along the way, they discuss the role of the canton of Uri, the legend of the devil's bridge, and how control of the pass shaped Swiss identity and neutrality. This episode offers a fresh perspective on a familiar landmark, showing how a mountain pass became the backbone of a nation. #Gotthard #Switzerland #AlpineHistory #Teufelsbrücke #SchöllenenGorge #Uri #Ticino #GotthardBaseTunnel #SwissNeutrality #AlpineTrade #MedievalHistory #RailwayHistory #Infrastructure #EuropeanHistory #History #FexingoHistory #Podcast #SwissIdentity Keep every episode free: buymeacoffee.com/fexingo