Halbkanton (demicanton), comprising the southern part of former Appenzell canton, northeastern Switzerland, at the north foot of the Säntis Peak. It has an area of 67 square miles (172 square km) and was divided from Appenzell Ausser-Rhoden demicanton in 1597 for religious reasons. Its constitution dates from 1872, and its capital is Appenzell. Although mountainous, the canton is largely pastoral with extensive cattle breeding and dairying. Hand embroidery is also important. The population is German speaking and almost entirely Roman Catholic. Pop. (2007 est.) 15,300.