Lausanne is located on the northern shore of Lake Geneva. The city hosts the prestigious Prix de Lausanne, an international ballet competition that attracts young talents from around the globe.
Jean-Michel Jarre, one of the pioneers of electronic music, was born in Lausanne. He is renowned for his compositions and outdoor performances, making him an influential figure in the electronic music world. Lausanne is also home to the Orchestre de Chambre de Lausanne (Lausanne Chamber Orchestra), a prestigious ensemble that has gained international acclaim for its exceptional performances, just like the Ensemble Instrumental de Lausanne.
On the contemporary music front, Lausanne has an amazing local music scene that features various genres, including rock, indie, jazz, and hip-hop. The city's music venues, such as Les Docks and Le Romandie, showcase both local talent and international acts.
The city's Old Town, with its medieval buildings and streets, exudes charm and houses landmarks like the Cathedral of Notre-Dame. The Collection de l'Art Brut, a unique museum, showcases outsider art, celebrating creativity beyond conventional norms. Lausanne's contemporary art scene thrives in places like Plateforme 10, a cultural district housing museums like the Musée de l'Elysée, dedicated to photography, and the Musée Cantonal des Beaux-Arts, showcasing modern and contemporary art.
Home to the International Olympic Committee, proudly embraces its status as the Olympic capital. The Olympic Museum, overlooking Lake Geneva, tells the story of the Games through exhibitions and interactive displays. Lausanne's medieval heritage is evident in the Château Saint-Maire, an ancient castle that once served as the episcopal residence and is now the seat of the cantonal government. The Sauvabelin Tower, a wooden observation tower dating back to the 20th century, offers panoramic views of the city and the surrounding Alps.