OLTEN
SWITZERLAND
About Olten
The beautiful town of Olten lies at the very heart of the Swiss railway network, placing Bern, Zurich, Basel, and Lucerne all just over a 30-minute journey away. Yet Olten is far more than just a central transit hub. It is a vibrant and diverse community, home to people from more than 125 different nations.
Over the years, it has become a welcoming destination for immigrants and refugees from around the world, creating a truly international environment within a compact town.
Nestled at the southern foot of the Jura mountains and surrounded by forests, Olten is rich in natural beauty. The Aare River flows through the town, while its charming, history-steeped old town adds to its distinctive character. The surrounding region is especially inviting for nature lovers, history enthusiasts, and those who enjoy an active lifestyle.
While we deeply value and celebrate Olten, we are also aware of the challenges it faces. Despite its relatively small population of around 20,000, the town struggles with issues more often associated with large cities, including a visible drug and prostitution scene, isolated minority communities, and a striking number of people affected by depression.
These realities reveal a deep need for hope, healing, and light. We invite you to join us in bringing God’s love to Olten and from here, to Switzerland and beyond.
