The Swiss Alps are lit up by the flag of Peru

In moments of distress and uncertainty, a word of encouragement or a nice gesture can become a great source of comfort. On April 22 – the 38th day of social isolation put into force by the Peruvian government to stop the spread of COVID-19 – Peru woke up to some emotional news that traveled around the world.

Our beloved two-colored flag was projected high – and in all its splendor – on none other than the majestic Matterhorn mountain in the Swiss Alps. At night, in accordance with the time zone of the country, the national symbol delighted the people of Zermatt, where the mountain is located.

A beacon of hope

The architect of this creation is visual artist Gerry Hofstetter, who since March 24 has been projecting the flags of the more than one hundred countries that today are fighting a tough battle against the new coronavirus, cataloged as a global pandemic by the World Health Organization (WHO).

“Peru, a mountainous country like Switzerland, is also suffering from the coronavirus. The Peruvian Government has actively assisted with the repatriation of many Swiss citizens. We thank them for this solidarity and send them a sign of hope,” the artist wrote on his Twitter account.

A beacon of hope. This is how the artist summarizes the projection of the flags of each nation that finds itself in a state of emergency. “If we make a message with light in a situation like the one we are experiencing, it provides hope,” Hofstetter said.

This exhibition was quickly shared by the Swiss Embassy in Peru through its Facebook account. They also highlighted the event as a show of solidarity with the Peruvian people.

“From the Swiss Alps, we are sending the Peruvian people a beacon of hope, compassion and love. In support of the fight against the coronavirus pandemic, the Zermatt Matterhorn people are lighting up the famous Matterhorn every night with the flags of countries that are also facing this crisis," reads the publication.

“During the night of April 21-22, the Matterhorn became a symbol of hope and solidarity for Peru. Switzerland stands in solidarity with all those who are living through these difficult times and we thank all those who are giving their support to overcome the crisis. We are also grateful to the various institutions of the Peruvian Government that supported us in the repatriation of many Swiss citizens. Together we are stronger,” the publication adds.

The tourism portal of the majestic Matterhorn also had some meaningful words for the action.

“With this projection of light, Zermatt wants to give people a sign of hope and solidarity in these difficult times. The village shows solidarity with all the people who are currently suffering and is grateful to all those who are helping towards overcoming the crisis,” it reads.

A Networking Event

It is worth mentioning that the images of the Peruvian flag as well as those of other countries are posted on the Facebook page of the Swiss Embassy in Peru and on all the social networks of the institution.  Thousands of enthusiastic followers from all over the world have taken the time to express their gratitude for the remarkable gesture. The photo of our flag illuminating the Swiss sky was taken by Henry Maurer.

The Swiss ambassador to Peru took advantage of his social networks to share the news and described it as a sign of friendship between the two countries. “The iconic Matterhorn lights up to bring messages of hope to the world. Also showcasing the colors of Peru as a sign of friendship!” he said.

Sources: Andina/ La República/ Andina/ Caretas