Canton of Glarus

Glarus is a territory in eastern Switzerland that follows the course of the Linth valley and rises into surrounding mountains. The peaks climb to 3614 meters at Tödi in the northern sector, while lower valleys and pastures trace the southern slopes.

The area joined the Old Swiss Confederacy in 1352, counting among the eight founding members during the medieval period. After a fire in 1861, the main town was rebuilt with a planned street grid.

The capital and surrounding territory still use an open voting process in which residents gather outdoors to decide on cantonal questions. This public assembly draws participants who make decisions together, practicing a form of direct self-government visible to anyone attending.

Housing and land cost less here than in neighboring areas, while connections to Zurich remain within an hour's reach. Trails lead from valley floors to higher ridges and suit different levels of difficulty.

After the great fire of 1861, the capital was rebuilt with a fully gridded street network that still shapes its entire layout today. The even blocks let visitors find their way easily through the reconstructed town.

Location: Switzerland

Inception: 1352

Capital city: Glarus

Elevation above the sea: 472 m

Reference: GL

Part of: Eastern Switzerland, Southeastern Switzerland

Shares border with: Canton of Uri, Canton of the Grisons, Canton St. Gallen, Canton of Schwyz

Phone: +41556466011

Email: staatskanzlei@gl.ch

Website: https://gl.ch

GPS coordinates: 46.98333,9.06667

Latest update: December 12, 2025 02:41