Cláudia Fonseca Buzzi, Embassy of Brazil

Article published in the infoletter December 2024.

I am truly enthusiastic about the remarkable exhibition “Brasil! Brasil! The Birth of Modernism”, inaugurated on 6 September at the Zentrum Paul Klee. This extraordinary showcase looks back to the “Week of Modern Art” that took place in São Paulo in 1922 and features a unique collection of artwork that has profoundly transformed the way we Brazilians perceive ourselves and our culture. This exhibition is open to the public until 5 January 2025.

Through my readings inspired by the “Brasil! Brasil!” exhibition, I discovered that Raul Bopp, a prominent Brazilian modernist poet and diplomat, has served as Brazilian Ambassador in Bern from 1954 to 1958. He actively engaged with both literary and diplomatic circles, and his efforts significantly fostered cultural exchange between Brazil and Switzerland.

This revelation has added the name of Raul Bopp to another project very dear to me, which is to trace the footsteps of two other distinguished Brazilians who lived in Bern: the Baron of Rio Branco and Clarice Lispector (more information about these two personalities can be found in the boxes below).

What struck me most was seeing very young children walking unaccompanied through the city and safely crossing streets at traffic lights, sometimes with slightly older (but still young) siblings. This continues to amaze and enchant me.

It was my first time in Bern and my inaugural posting as an ambassador abroad. So, I made a conscious effort to imprint the sights and sensations of that moment in my memory. The view of the Parliament building and the vibrant colour of the Aare from the Monbijou Bridge remain vividly etched in my mind.

Soon after I arrived, I realised that this perfectly orderly society is the result of the collective effort of every resident. Everyone must cooperate and adhere to rules that are not necessarily intuitive. As a Brazilian, I initially found it challenging to adapt to long-term planning. However, once I understood how it simplifies life, I became a big fan of planning ahead.

The benefits definitely outweigh the challenges. Walking through the city even late at night without worrying about security, and the efficient public transportation system, are just a few examples. Not to forget the cleanliness, which makes living here a true pleasure.

The kindness of the people, the tranquility and the relaxed Bernese way of life.

I will miss the natural beauty of Switzerland, which is indeed unparalleled. The harmonious blend of nature and urban life in Bern creates a unique atmosphere that is hard to find elsewhere.

I like it all: cheese, Paul Klee, bears (and wolves), but also beer, and hiking.

I am currently studying German, and occasionally, I can even understand what people are saying in Swiss German. I find the sound of Swiss German quite appealing.

While it is difficult to single out a specific encounter, I would highlight the experience of attending, in situ, the elections of the Swiss Federal Council, as well as of the President and Vice-President, in 2022 and 2023. Foreign ambassadors were invited to the Parliament’s tribune, where we could observe the Swiss political process in action. It was an invaluable experience that deepened my admiration for and understanding of this remarkable country.

Filomena DELGADO, Ambassador of Angola (the portrait will be published in the next infoletter).

Discover the interesting personalities who enrich our federal city.