Rütli Meadow
Nidwalden
Rütli Meadow, located on the western shore of Lake Lucerne in the Swiss canton of Uri, is a historic mountain meadow renowned as the symbolic site where the original Swiss Confederacy was founded through the legendary Rütlischwur oath. This meadow has been celebrated as the cradle of Switzerland and is treated as a national monument. The site gained symbolic importance during the early 18th century with the rise of Swiss national identity and National Romanticism. It was immortalized in Friedrich Schiller's 1804 drama "William Tell," which dramatized the Rütli oath, further elevating its status. The meadow is preserved by the Schweizerische Gemeinnützige Gesellschaft (SGG) since 1859, ensuring its protection as a symbol of Swiss liberty. The site is accessible by boat from Lake Lucerne or on foot via a hiking trail from Seelisberg. Rütli continues to be a focal point for Swiss National Day celebrations and national remembrance, including General Henri Guisan's 1940 speech outlining Switzerland's defense strategy during World War II. The surrounding landscape offers scenic beauty and a profound sense of historical significance, making it a compelling destination for visitors interested in Swiss heritage and natural splendor.
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Tipp: Visitors are advised to access Rütli Meadow by boat from Lake Lucerne or by hiking from Seelisberg, with the best visits during summer months and on Swiss National Day (August 1) when celebrations are held. Pre-registration may be required for National Day events due to security measures. Tickets for boat transport should be purchased in advance to ensure availability. Comfortable footwear is recommended for the hiking trail. The site is managed to preserve its historic and natural integrity, so visitors should respect the environment and cultural significance.
Interessante Fakten
- •The Rütlischwur (Rütli oath) is a legendary pact marking the foundation of the Swiss Confederacy, first documented in the 15th century.
- •Friedrich Schiller's 1804 play "William Tell" brought international attention to Rütli Meadow.
- •General Henri Guisan gave a significant wartime speech at Rütli in 1940 outlining Switzerland's defense strategy.
- •The Schweizerische Gemeinnützige Gesellschaft has managed the site since 1859 to preserve its national importance.
- •Rütli Meadow is only accessible by boat or a hiking trail, preserving its secluded and historic atmosphere.
Geschichte
The meadow became a symbol of Swiss national identity in the 18th century, inspired by early National Romanticism.
In 1804, Friedrich Schiller's play "William Tell" dramatized the Rütli oath, popularizing the site.
The Schweizerische Gemeinnützige Gesellschaft purchased the land in 1859 to preserve it from commercial development, establishing it as a national monument.
In 1940, General Henri Guisan delivered a pivotal speech at Rütli, emphasizing Swiss resistance during World War II.
Since 1991, it has served as the starting point of the Swiss Path hiking trail, celebrating Switzerland's 700th anniversary.
Ortsführer
Rütli Meadow1307 (legendary date)
The historic meadow where representatives of Uri, Schwyz, and Unterwalden are said to have sworn the Rütlischwur oath, symbolizing Swiss unity and independence.
Rütli Museum (Musée Grütli)19th century (museum establishment)
A small museum located halfway up the hiking trail from Seelisberg, dedicated to the history and symbolism of Rütli Meadow and the Swiss Confederacy.
Kontakt
Telefon: 041 820 12 74