The Humanitarian Trail
in Geneva

The Humanitarian Trail in Geneva

Have you ever wondered how the Red Cross & Red Crescent adventure began?

Everything happened in Geneva. Yes right here!

As you immerse yourself in the city, you will discover the story of humanitarian action, the Geneva Conventions and the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement.

The Humanitarian Trail takes you on a journey along two paths, one in the historic Old Town called the Old Town Trail and another in the heart of its international work and presence here today – the Red Cross and Red Crescent Promenade.

As you explore the history of the city centre and the international district, you will learn about the birth and growth of what is today the world’s largest humanitarian network – the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement (the Movement).

Two unforgettable experiences!

Old Town Trail

Old Town ©Genève Tourisme

In the Old Town, discover how a handful of Geneva citizens started the Red Cross and Red Crescent story and how it quickly unfolded into humanitarian action and, later, the development of international humanitarian law.

You will also learn about the history of the city as you pass by landmarks that are rich in symbolism.

 

Red Cross and Red Crescent Promenade

Red Cross & Red Crescent Museum ©Genève Tourisme

Follow the story of the humanitarian Movement as you walk between the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) and the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC).

Along the way, you will also discover how the Geneva countryside has been transformed by the city’s international destiny, triggered by the foundation of the Red Cross and Geneva Conventions.

 

 

Walk the Trails

With a guide

Why not let a guide take you on a journey through history for a personalised experience full of insights into the stories of Geneva and of the Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement.

 

8 May ©Croix-Rouge genevoise
8 May ©Croix-Rouge genevoise

With a guide

Why not let a guide take you on a journey through history for a personalised experience full of insights into the stories of Geneva and of the Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement

 

At your own pace

Access the digital map on your smartphone or tablet and take the time to walk the trails when in Geneva.

You can always embark on a virtual tour  from wherever you are – simply click on a stop and read the story.

The 2024 digital map is available in English, French, Spanish, German and Arabic.

Le sentier humanitaire sur votre smartphone
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 ©Genève Tourisme and photo gallery ©Céline Saugy