Switzerland's last witch hunt: Anna Goldi holds the dubious honour of being the last person executed in Europe for being a 'witch'. She was decapitated for her crimes in Canton Glarus some 226 years ago. Swiss News investigates this treacherous tale, permeated with adultery, child abuse and sorcery.

Swiss News › Nbr. 2008, April 2008

Author: Mirza, Faryal

Position:: SEASONAL FEATURE

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Switzerland's last witch hunt: Anna Goldi holds the dubious honour of being the last person executed in Europe for being a 'witch'. She was decapitated for her crimes in Canton Glarus some 226 years ago. Swiss News investigates this treacherous tale, permeated with adultery, child abuse and sorcery.

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Anna Goldi made the headlines recently due to an official declaration in August 2008 by Canton Glarus, stating that the domestic servant was not guilty of poisoning a child in her care. This announcement rendered the court decision of 1782 null and void. The court had handed Goldi (or Goldin, as she was also known) the death p...

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