Switzerland

The story behind the answer

Bern is Switzerland’s capital in practice—the designated “federal city” (Bundesstadt) since 1848—because it houses the Federal Council, Parliament, and the Bundeshaus (Federal Palace). The Swiss constitution doesn’t explicitly name a capital, but Bern serves as the seat of national government. Don’t be fooled by the prominence of the other cities: Zurich is the largest city and financial hub; Geneva hosts many international organizations (UN, Red Cross); Lausanne is home to the International Olympic Committee.

Memory tip: B for Bern, B for Bundesstadt and Bundeshaus—and the city’s bear symbol. Picture the bear by the Aare River guarding Switzerland’s government to lock it in.