Ticino

Canton of southern Switzerland; area 2,812 sq km/1,086 sq mi; population (1999 est) 306,200. Its capital is Bellinzona. The River Ticino flows through the region and is a vital source of hydroelectric power in Switzerland. Tourism is a mainstay of the economy, with popular resorts including Lugano and Locarno on Lake Maggiore. Wine, corn, and tobacco are also produced. Bordering on Italy, the canton shares its history with Italy's Lombardy region. Captured by Swiss confederates in the 16th century, it was governed by Schwyz and Uri cantons and became a full Swiss canton in 1803.