Altorf

Altorf, or ALTDORF, the chief town in the Swiss canton Uri, is situated in a sheltered spot at the base of the Grinberg, at the head of the Lake of Lucerne. The little tower on which the legendary exploits of William Tell are painted in rude frescoes is of dubious antiquity. Situated on the St Gothard road and railway, Altorf has some transit trade. Pop. about 3000.—The old town of ALTORF, or ALTDORF, in Middle Franconia (pop. 4000), was the seat of a university from 1623 to 1809.