Tell Monument
Uri
The Tell Monument, located in the market square of Altdorf in the Canton of Uri, Switzerland, is a bronze statue created by sculptor Richard Kissling and inaugurated on August 28, 1895. It depicts William Tell, the legendary Swiss folk hero, carrying his crossbow and accompanied by his son Walther. The monument stands at the foot of an old tower and features the engraved date 1307, traditionally associated with the Rütlischwur, a foundational oath in Swiss history. The statue captures Tell in a moment of defiance, refusing to bow before the hat of the Austrian reeve Albrecht Gessler, a symbol of foreign oppression. This monument is not only a tribute to Tell’s legendary act of shooting an apple off his son's head but also a symbol of Swiss independence and unity. The base includes three bronze reliefs illustrating scenes from Tell’s legend, and the backdrop painting on the tower was created by artist Hans Sandreuter. The Tell Monument is a central cultural landmark in Switzerland, inspiring plays and operas, and has become an iconic representation of Swiss national identity.
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Tipp: The best time to visit the Tell Monument is during summer months when the weather is pleasant for exploring Altdorf’s market square. Visitors are encouraged to purchase tickets or passes for related museums or guided tours in advance to avoid queues. The monument is freely accessible, but guided tours often provide deeper insights into the legend and local history. Discounts may be available for students, seniors, or groups. Check the official website for current visitor information and any special events or exhibitions related to William Tell.
Interessante Fakten
- •The Tell Monument features the traditional date 1307, linked to the Rütlischwur, an oath considered foundational for Swiss independence.
- •The statue shows William Tell with his son Walther, emphasizing the familial aspect of the legend.
- •Richard Kissling’s model was selected from 30 anonymous submissions in a national competition.
- •The monument includes bronze reliefs depicting scenes from the Tell legend on its base.
- •A backdrop painting by Hans Sandreuter adorns the tower behind the statue.
- •The legend of William Tell inspired Friedrich Schiller's 1803 play and Rossini's 1829 opera.
- •Earlier Tell statues existed in Zurich (destroyed in 1800) and Lugano (1856), showing different artistic interpretations of the hero.
Geschichte
The Tell Monument was commissioned following several earlier statues and memorials dedicated to William Tell in various Swiss locations, including Zurich and Lugano.
After initial attempts with less durable materials, a competition was held in 1891 to select a sculptor for a permanent monument in Altdorf.
Richard Kissling’s design was chosen for its representation of Tell in peasant clothes at the moment he refuses to bow to Gessler's hat.
The Federal Council supported the project financially, culminating in the statue's inauguration in 1895.
Since then, the monument has stood as a symbol of Swiss independence and the legendary origins of the Swiss Confederation.
OrtsfĂĽhrer
Tell Statue1895
The central bronze figure by Richard Kissling shows William Tell carrying a crossbow with his son Walther by his side, symbolizing courage and defiance against oppression.
Bronze Reliefs1895
Three detailed bronze reliefs at the base of the monument depict key scenes from the William Tell legend, including the apple shot and Tell’s escape.
Old Tower and Backdrop Painting1895
The monument stands at the foot of an old tower, which features a backdrop painting by Hans Sandreuter that enhances the monument’s dramatic presentation.
Kontakt
Telefon: 041 874 80 00