Rütli Meadow
Rütli
A meadow on the lakeshore where the three cantons of Switzerland swore their alliance in 1291. It is regarded as the birthplace of the Swiss Confederation and can only be reached by boat or on foot.
The Rütli meadow lies on a steep slope on the west shore of Lake Uri. Legend says that in 1291 representatives of Uri, Schwyz and Lower Unterwalden (Nidwalden) swore an alliance here, which became the origin of the Swiss Confederation. It is now a national memorial site. The meadow has a flagpole and a small wooden restaurant, but no large buildings. The main draws are its historical significance and the lake views. From Lucerne, a steamer takes about 2.5 hours, or from Brunnen about 15 minutes by boat. You can also walk down from Seelisberg in about 20 minutes. The Swiss Path, a lakeside trail, starts here.
Opening hours
All day (per boat schedule)
Nearby sights
- Brunnen
- Tell's Chapel
- Stoos Funicular & Fronalpstock
- Mount Rigi
- Bürgenstock & Hammetschwand Lift
- Lake Lucerne
- Stanserhorn
- Swiss Museum of Transport