The town of Neuch"tel is located in western Switzerland capital of Neuch"tel Canton, on the Lake of Neuch"tel ? the country's largest lake. Neuch"tel is located in a region affectionately called "Watch Valley." The town is the capital of watch making and would, under other circumstances, be famous for that alone. The town, surrounded by dairy farms and vineyards, has industries producing wine and decadent gourmet chocolates famous all over the world. Neuch"tel is also well known for its variety of fondue,Fondue Neuch"teloise. During the summer, the streets liven up in September forthe Neuch"tel Vintage Festival. The Ch"teau, built in the 12 century and where the music festival takes place, is also worth a visit. The Ch"teau is still in use as the offices of the cantonal government. The Collegiate Church, built in the 13th century, hosts a two-month festival from July to September offering exhibitions, music, shows, and conferences.

The Neuch"tel Museum of Art and History includes the very first Automates (robots) made by the famous Neuch"tel watchmaker Jaquet-Droz. These programmable androids were made between 1770 and 1774.The three mechanical figurines were built to the most exacting technical standards and are still in perfect working order today.

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