Sightseeing in Geneva

Today I decided to travel into Geneva and do some touristy sightseeing! 

View from the tram on the way from CERN to Geneva

My first stop: Lake Geneva

Jet d'Eau, Lake Geneva

The Jet is a famous landmark of Geneva, and is huge. The picture doesn't do it justice. The lake is beautiful, it's much lighter in person than it is in the photograph.

Me and the Jet d'Eau

 After crossing the bridge across Lake Geneva, I trekked into (uphill to) Old Town Geneva to see St. Peter's Cathedral, a cathedral from the 12th Century. I love old architecture, especially churches. It was breathtaking. As I was sitting in the pews, I couldn't help but think of all the people who have worshiped there since it was built.

Front of St. Pierre's Cathedral

St. Pierre's Cathedral 

A special chapel in the cathedral, the Chapel of the Maccabees had a beautiful ceiling and stain glass windows 

The Chapel of the Maccabees was my favorite part of the cathedral. It wasn't too big, but it was decorated beautifully. It was a true work of art.

Today was really fun! I liked seeing the ancient architecture and being able to explore. It was nice to have a relaxing day before the work week starts up again tomorrow. I'm looking forward to meeting all of the summer students who are just arriving. Every person I have met so far (other than in the group from Northern VA) has been from a different country. Greece, Holland, Germany, Austria...the list goes on and on!

Back at CERN, this is the view of the Alps from our hostel window