Lucerne, called Luzern in German, is a city and municipality in central Switzerland and the capital of the canton of Lucerne. With about 86,700 residents it is the most populous city in Central Switzerland, and its urban area spans nineteen municipalities. It lies where Lake Lucerne drains into the river Reuss within sight of Mount Pilatus and Mount Rigi, and has long attracted tourists. The wooden Chapel Bridge, first built in the 14th century, is its best known landmark. A monastery was founded there around 750, the town won independence from Murbach Abbey in 1178, and it joined the Swiss Confederacy in 1332, becoming a strong member after its victory over the Habsburgs at Sempach in 1386. The municipality covers 29.1 square kilometres and has an oceanic climate with rain throughout the year.
Facts
Area (sq km) Founding Year Elevation (m) Elevation Band Climate Zone Connections
Has Capital
Source Canton of Lucerne (Wikipedia)
Largest City
Source Canton of Lucerne (Wikipedia)
Sources
1. Lucerne (Wikipedia)
Lead
With a population of approximately 86,700 people (as of 2025)
Geography and climate, topography
The municipality has an area of 29.1 square kilometers (11.2 sq mi).
History, early history and founding
In 1178 Lucerne acquired its independence from the jurisdiction of Murbach Abbey, and the founding of the city proper probably occurred that same year.
Geography and climate, climate
The Köppen Climate Classification subtype for this climate is "Cfb" (Marine West Coast Climate/Oceanic climate).
On Continent: Europe, Lead, location
is a city and a municipality in central Switzerland, in the German-speaking portion of the country
View the Source2. Opentopodata (SRTM): SRTM 90 m elevation at 47.05,8.3
Opentopodata (SRTM)Elevation of the place coordinates 47.05,8.3, band assigned from the figure (up to 10 m sea level, under 500 m lowland, under 1500 m highland, otherwise mountain)Quote, Elevation of the place coordinates 47.05,8.3, band assigned from the figure (up to 10 m sea level, under 500 m lowland, under 1500 m highland, otherwise mountain)
"elevation": 439.0
View the Source Canton of Lucerne (Wikipedia)
Has Capital: Canton of Lucerne, Lead
The cantonal capital is the city of Lucerne.
Largest City: Canton of Lucerne, Politics
The largest population centres are Lucerne, Emmen and Kriens.
View the SourceReader Challenges (0)
No disputes yet. Spotted an error or a better source? Open the first one.
Sign in to dispute this or suggest a correction.