The James Family (Papi & Abita): Swarovski's Christmas Tree! Now that's a Tree!

The Swarovski's 2010 Crystal Christmas Tree at the Zürich Hauptbahnhof

Every year, Zurich holds a Christkindli-Market (Christmas Market) at the Hauptbahnhof (Train Station). It is the largest covered Christmas market in Europe with over 160 decorated market stalls. While pictures present some of the beauty we experienced, the impact of the wonderful smells emanating from the market can barely be described.

Heidelbeer-Glühwein (Mulled Wine) was being warmed everywhere. Chestnuts were roasting at many of the stalls. Gruyère (cheese) along with so many other cheese was being served here and there. The combination of each of the smells was intoxicating.

Tradition has it that if you visit Zurich and you get lost, make your way to the Train Station and go under the enormous clock. It's the meeting place where if you can't find your folks, that's where you go. And there were quite a number of people waiting for others that Sunday evening.

Swarovski's Christmas Tree was spectacular. Adorned with over 7,000 crystals, the tree is prominently viewed from anywhere in the station. It is huge. I believe over 50 feet tall. Because the crystals are so expensive, it is enclosed in a glass case.

Here's a slide show of the Swarovski's 2010 Christmas Tree!