Appenzell Innerrhoden: History & Tradition
Catholic Innerrhoden came into being in 1597 when the Canton of Appenzell was divided into two-half cantons as a result of irreconcilable religious differences.
The cantonal constitution dates back to 1872, but women's suffrage is even more recent. Rejected by voters three times in 1973, 1982 and 1990, the right of women to vote and stand for election in the Canton was finally introduced on 27 November 1990 by decision of the Swiss Federal Supreme Court.
Tradition – Up to the Alpine pastures - and down again
The whole region celebrates when the farmers take their cattle up to (or down from) the Alpine pastures. From late May, the livestock farmers escort their animals to the fresh grazing meadows in the mountains and from mid-August onwards, they return to the valley for the winter months. Many farmers still wear period costume and are accompanied by their Appenzell mountain dogs.
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Culinary tradition
The region offers a wide variety of savoury and sweet culinary treats.
Traditional products
- Appenzeller® cheese
- Appenzeller Bier
- «Birewegge» (Birnbrot)
- Appenzeller Alpenbitter
- Biber
