Appenzell Innerrhoden

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  Map of the Canton of Appenzell Innerrhoden

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  Battle of Vögelinsegg 1403

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  Map of the Municipality of Appenzell 2022

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  Government of Appenzell Innerrhoden 2010

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  Appenzeller Landsgemeinde

Appenzell Innerrhoden

Appenzell Innerrhoden is one of the 26 cantons of Switzerland. It is located in the northeastern part of the country and is known for its picturesque landscapes, traditional customs, and unique political structure. Appenzell Innerrhoden is the smallest Swiss canton by population and the second smallest by area.

Geography

Appenzell Innerrhoden is situated in the Alps, characterized by rolling hills, lush pastures, and scenic mountains. The canton is bordered by Appenzell Ausserrhoden to the north and west, and the canton of St. Gallen to the east and south. The highest point in Appenzell Innerrhoden is the Säntis mountain, which stands at 2,502 meters above sea level.

History

The history of Appenzell Innerrhoden is closely linked with that of Appenzell Ausserrhoden. Originally, the region was part of the Abbey of Saint Gall's territory. In the late Middle Ages, the people of Appenzell sought independence from the abbey, leading to the Appenzell Wars in the early 15th century. In 1513, Appenzell joined the Old Swiss Confederacy as a full member.

In 1597, the canton was divided into Appenzell Innerrhoden and Appenzell Ausserrhoden due to religious differences, with Innerrhoden remaining predominantly Roman Catholic and Ausserrhoden becoming Protestant.

Politics

Appenzell Innerrhoden is known for its traditional form of direct democracy. The canton holds an annual Landsgemeinde, an open-air assembly where citizens gather to vote on various issues by a show of hands. This practice is one of the oldest forms of direct democracy in the world.

The canton is divided into six districts, each with its own local government. The capital of Appenzell Innerrhoden is the town of Appenzell.

Economy

The economy of Appenzell Innerrhoden is primarily based on agriculture, tourism, and small-scale manufacturing. The region is famous for its Appenzeller cheese, a traditional Swiss cheese with a distinctive flavor. Tourism is also a significant part of the economy, with visitors attracted to the canton’s natural beauty and cultural heritage.

Culture

Appenzell Innerrhoden is rich in cultural traditions, many of which have been preserved over the centuries. The canton is known for its folk music, yodeling, and traditional Swiss wrestling known as Schwingen. The people of Appenzell Innerrhoden also celebrate various festivals and events, such as the Alpabzug, where cattle are brought down from the alpine pastures in autumn.

Related pages

• Appenzell Ausserrhoden
• Cantons of Switzerland
• Säntis
• Landsgemeinde