Canton of Uri

This canton in central Switzerland stretches from the shores of Lake Lucerne to the Gotthard massif, covering around 1,077 square kilometers (416 square miles). The terrain rises from the Reuss valley to high Alpine zones, with forested slopes, steep rock faces, and several glaciers at upper elevations.

In 1291, this territory joined Schwyz and Unterwalden in an alliance that later became the core of the Swiss Confederation. Over time, the route over the Gotthard Pass grew into a major trade link between northern and southern Europe.

Village names reflect centuries of settlement, and many communities preserve wooden buildings and stone churches from earlier periods. Locals speak Urner German, a dialect that sounds noticeably different from the speech heard in neighboring regions.

The Gotthard railway line connects this region with northern and southern parts of Switzerland, while mountain passes offer road access to neighboring cantons. In winter, some high-altitude routes may close, so checking conditions before heading to upper valleys is a good idea.

More than half the area consists of rock, ice, and scree unsuitable for human use. Glaciers cover roughly one fifth of the entire territory, giving the landscape its high Alpine character.

Location: Switzerland

Inception: 1291

Capital city: Altdorf

Elevation above the sea: 447 m

Part of: Central Switzerland, Waldstätte

Shares border with: Canton of the Grisons, Canton of Ticino, Canton of Valais, Bern, Canton of Obwalden, Canton of Nidwalden, Canton of Glarus, Canton of Schwyz

Website: https://ur.ch

GPS coordinates: 46.78333,8.61667

Latest update: December 4, 2025 23:42