The famous «Escalade» evening in 1602
Mrs Anna Hamilton-Faust, a guide specialized in the history of Geneva, told us about the historical failed attempt of the neighbouring Catholic Savoyards to take over the Protestant wealthy Geneva. This happened on the night of the 11th of December 1602.
We were a group of twelve people attending a very cosy cocktail dinner at the restaurant Almercato in Carouge (Geneva). Among the participants, Ms Francesca Fuoli, representing the ETH Alumni Office, joined us for the first time to not only attend the event, but also to get to know all of us, including the committee and our members.
The evening was very nice: Even though some of the people didn’t know each other, the atmosphere was family-like. Their presence together with a bit of history, a few glasses of wine and a lovely cocktail dinner contributed to this successful event.
Apart from learning more about the history of Geneva, Francesca had the chance to hear from everyone what their wishes and expectations were, and how the Alumni Association could help to be even more efficient and to attract more future members.
Our guide Anna explained us the historical environment, before, during and after the 11th of December 1602, that led to the failed attempt of the neighbouring catholic Savoyards to take over the protestant wealthy Geneva. This night has been called the night of the “Escalade” (which means the night of the “Climbing”) because the French tried to enter Geneva by installing ladders to climb the city walls.
However, Anna elaborated on the difference between the true story and the legend. And like any other history, the legend glorifies the achievements of the victorious party- in this case, those who defended Geneva.
We are very happy that we were able to recelebrate this legend together in 2022!
