Lugano and Bellinzona

In Switzerland they speak three main languages (Swiss German, French, and Italian), and a lesser spoken language (Romansh).  The southern canton of Ticino is where Italian is primarily spoken.  In this canton are two cities - Lugano and Bellinzona.  Lugano is a lake-side city and the largest in the canton, while Bellinzona is the canton capital known for its castles.
 

In Bellinzona we stayed with a wonderful woman in her family's home.  She was part Italian and part Swiss, and she felt conflict between her two nationalities despite the common language.  We were fortunate to get our own apartment for the time we stayed with them, though we spent quite some time chatting and eating together.  We even spent one full day with her just walking around the city.