Pilgrimage site on Lake Geneva "I like Freddie Mercury because he's famous"

The memorial statue of Freddie Mercury, the singer of Queen who died in 1991, stands on the Montreux promenade in a typical concert pose. Fans still make pilgrimages here to this day to pay homage to their idol.

The love story between Queen and Montreux began in 1978, when the band recorded their LP "Jazz" on Lake Geneva.

Back then, Freddie Mercury bought an apartment with a view of the lake and a recording studio. Fondue and raclette are said to have been his favorite dishes.

Initially, however, Mercury and his three bandmates Brian May, Roger Taylor and John Deacon were not fans of the city. It was too quiet for them.

Peace of mind and Montreux

Mercury called Montreux a "sleepy nest". Nevertheless, he had a lot of love for the place: "If you want peace of soul, come to Montreux", he is said to have once said.

The singer came to Lake Geneva primarily to work. The singer, who died of Aids in 1991, is also said to have composed his very last song here with a view of the lake: "A Winter's Tale".

And the band also recorded their last album "Made in Heaven" with the original line-up in Montreux.

The bronze sculpture of Freddie Mercury on the lakeside promenade was erected in 1996 and is the town's tribute to the incomparable singer.