Cistercian Convent of Mariazell and Convent Archives

Mariazell-Wurmsbach Cistercian Convent (Kloster Wurmsbach) sits in Bollingen, a district of Rapperswil-Jona, on the northern shore of the upper Lake Zurich. It is listed in Switzerland's inventory of cultural property together with its convent archives, and it is among the oldest nuns' abbeys still alive in eastern Switzerland.

What is the history of Wurmsbach?

The story starts in 1259, when Count Rudolf IV of Rapperswil handed his castle of Wurmsbach and a large estate to a community of beguines who wished to follow the Cistercian rule. In 1261 the community was admitted into the order, and in 1262 Pope Urban IV confirmed the foundation and granted it many privileges. Zurich took the nuns in as citizens in 1264 and exempted them from dues and tolls. For generations most of the sisters came from noble and knightly families in and around Zurich.

What can you see?

The complex stands on a gentle rise above the lake. It includes the convent church with a cloister, a guesthouse, a walled garden and a cemetery. The present church dates from around 1600–1620. The atmosphere is quiet and intimate rather than that of a ticketed sight.

From 1836 to 2022 the sisters ran a girls' school, with a boarding section from 1842. It closed in 2022 because of falling enrolment. The religious community itself continues.

How do you visit?

This is a living convent, so plan around the sisters' daily prayer. Check access to the grounds and church on the convent's website (kloster-wurmsbach.ch) before you go; group tours are arranged in advance. The convent archives serve researchers rather than casual visitors.

How do you get there?

Bollingen lies a few kilometres from the centre of Rapperswil, the town known for its castle and lakeside promenade. You can reach it by local transport, by bike or on foot along the shore, and the surroundings suit an easy lakeside walk.

Frequently asked questions

Who founded Wurmsbach? Count Rudolf IV of Rapperswil, who gave beguines his castle and land in 1259.

Is the convent still active? Yes, a community of Cistercian nuns lives there. Only the girls' school closed, in 2022.

Can you see the archives? They are meant for researchers. Access is arranged directly with the convent.

Is there an entrance fee? Check current rules and opening times on the convent's website before visiting.