Lucerne (German Luzern) is a canton of Switzerland. It is located in the centre
of Switzerland. The population is 350,600 (as of 2001). The cantonal capital
is Lucerne.
The canton of Lucerne comprises territories acquired by its capital Lucerne, either by treaty, armed occupation or purchase, largely by 1415. Lucerne had already joined the Swiss Confederation in 1332. The canton briefly attempted to pursue a policy of separation from 1841-1847, but was defeated by the troops of the Swiss Confederation. The canton of Lucerne re-joined the Swiss Confederation in 1848 as a full member.
EconomyAbout nine tenths of the total area is productive land. Agriculture is the most significant source of income, but industry is also developed. The most important agricultural products are crops, fruit and cattle breeding. Industry concentrates on textiles, machinery, paper, wood, tobacco and metallurgical goods.
GeographyThe canton of Lucerne is located in the centre of Switzerland. It is drained by the river Reuss and the river Kleine Emme. The lands of the canton lie on the northern foothills of the Swiss Alps. The highest elevation of the canton of Lucerne is at the Brienzer Rothorn at 2,350m. The area of the canton is 1,493 km².
Related topics
Lucerne The heart of Switzerland Museum of Transport in Lucerne
