A little piece of Switzerland, right in the heart of Milan. The Swiss House has set up shop at the Centro Svizzero, near Porta Venezia, for the Winter Olympics. The courtyard has been transformed to include a giant screen, benches, a food truck, and even an alpine garden, bringing a touch of nature to this urban environment while showcasing the country's natural heritage. This project, established in partnership with Swiss Olympic, has two objectives. A sporting mission, for athletes and fans, and nation branding, to communicate and promote Switzerland " says Philipp Ittig, director of the House.
The Swiss House is open every day, and admission is free, until Sunday. Two other houses are currently operating, in Cortina d'Ampezzo and Bormio. The one in Cortina will also remain open for the Paralympic Games. The broadcasts inevitably raise the temperature, even more so when it's time for the national ice hockey team or the alpine skiing events. The prodigy Franjo von Allmen has already earned the right to appear three times on the medal wall with his three titles, as has Marco Odermatt, who won silver in Saturday's giant slalom.
Sport is combined with culture here, thanks to concerts, exhibitions and conferences… but that's not all. The gastronomic offerings highlight national specialties such as the unmissable raclette. The Swiss come to another country, and they eat raclette, just like when they're at home. "That's fun," says Philipp Ittig. He expects around 20.000 visitors over the two weeks. Compatriots, of course, but not only.
« We see flags of Switzerland, Italy… Yesterday, we had four Finnish lions watching their country's hockey game. For us, it's important to be open to everyone, that everyone feels welcome at the Swiss House, and that we share this Olympic spirit. “That’s a great sign,” adds Martina Gamboni, the event’s communications manager. “There will undoubtedly be many more coming this Monday for ‘Pin Monday,’ a perfect opportunity to expand your collection!”
