By the time the city's independence was won in 1602, its religious zeal had painted it as the "Protestant Rome". What continues to be known today as the Republic and Canton of Geneva remained outside the Swiss Confederation until 1815 (the Catholic cantons opposed its entry), and acquired a reputation for joylessness which it still struggles to shake off.
Today, it's a working city that remains
sharply focused on its prominent role in international diplomacy
and big business. Time and effort are needed to penetrate the facade
of money and power.
Source: Rough Guides