The humanitarian trail of the Red Cross
The humanitarian trail of the Red Cross

Have you ever wondered how the Red Cross adventure began?

Have you ever wondered how the Red Cross adventure began?

Everything happened in Geneva. Yes, right here!

The humanitarian trail of the Red Cross takes you through the city to discover the story of the world’s largest humanitarian Movement.

In the Old Town, follow the footsteps of a handful of Geneva citizens as they embark on this humanitarian adventure.

Head towards the city’s international district to discover how this led to the remarkable development of modern humanitarian action and law. Visit the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Museum and explore the emerging humanitarian challenges that affect us all.

An unforgettable experience!

Walk the trail

Walk the trail

At your own pace

Would you like to discover the trail on your own and at your leisure?

The free brochure and an interactive map guide you through the various Red Cross landmarks as you stroll through the city. To enrich your visit, three short videos are accessible via links and QR Codes.

The brochure can be obtained in different formats and languages (French, English, German, and Spanish – see menu).

Le sentier humanitaire sur votre smartphone

Digital version of our brochure and interactive map

Sentier Humanitaire de la Croix Rouge - brochure

Printed guides are available at the following locations:

International Red Cross and Red Crescent Museum
Avenue de la Paix 17 – 1202 Geneva (Tue-Sun)

Genève Tourisme: Jardin Anglais

With appointment :
Rue du Valais, 9 – 1202 Genève

Printed guides can also be ordered via the contact form. Please specify the quantity, language, destination and one of the following options: free delivery anywhere in Switzerland, a quotation for mailing outside Switzerland or a pick-up appointment the above address.

With the author

Would you prefer a personalised experience full of insights into this fascinating story?

Catherine Hubert Girod, author of the humanitarian trail, will take you on a journey back to the 19th-century bringing to life the main characters as the plot unfolds along in the cobbled streets of the Old Town.

Bust of Henry Dunant - Picture Céline Saugy
Place du Bourg-de-Four - © Céline Saugy
Hotel de Ville (the City Hall) which houses the Alabama Room where the first Geneva Convention was signed in 1864 - © Céline Saugy
Place des Nations - © Céline Saugy
Red Cross Museum and ICRC Headquarter - © Céline Saugy
International Federation of the Red Cross Headquarter - © Céline Saugy
Bust of Henry Dunant - Picture Céline Saugy Place du Bourg-de-Four - © Céline Saugy Hotel de Ville (the City Hall) which houses the Alabama Room where the first Geneva Convention was signed in 1864 - © Céline Saugy Place des Nations - © Céline Saugy Red Cross Museum and ICRC Headquarter - © Céline Saugy International Federation of the Red Cross Headquarter - © Céline Saugy

Image credit for page header: Areal view of the Old Town of Geneva – @ Geneva Tourism Office