Couvent des Capucins

The Capuchin Convent (Couvent des Capucins) in Fribourg stands at Rue de Morat 28 in the Swiss city of Fribourg (German: Freiburg). Built in the early 17th century, it is still home to a living religious community.

How did the convent come to Fribourg?

The Capuchins arrived in 1608, during the Catholic Reformation, when the order set out to bring the decrees of the Council of Trent to ordinary people. The convent was erected between 1613 and 1617 to plans by the architect Abraham Cotti of Valsesia. Some historical references give 1609 as the founding year of the community. Among its first friars was Philipp Tanner, fifth guardian of the house from 1616 to 1619 and a well-regarded preacher in the city's collegiate church and the Church of Our Lady.

What is there to see?

Next to the convent is the church dedicated to Saint Mary Magdalene. Inside you will find three rococo altarpieces and a monumental painting of the Descent from the Cross. The architecture is plain, in keeping with the Capuchin ideal of simplicity.

This is not a museum. The friars live and work here, and the house serves as a study centre for young Capuchins who attend university and prepare for pastoral work and teaching. Visit respectfully and stay out of the private quarters.

How do you get there?

The convent is in the city, on Rue de Morat (Murtengasse), close to Fribourg's historic centre. Its coordinates are 46.8105 N, 7.1587 E. You can reach it on foot from the station and the Old Town. If you drive, use one of the city car parks.

When should you visit?

Public descriptions do not list opening hours for the church. Call +41 26 347 23 50 or email [email protected] before you go; the community's website is capucins-fribourg.ch. A visit pairs well with a walk through the Old Town and along the Sarine river.

Frequently asked questions

Is the Capuchin church open to visitors?

It belongs to an active religious community and opening hours are not widely published. Contact the convent ahead of your trip.

When was the convent built?

Construction took place from 1613 to 1617, and the friars had settled in Fribourg in 1608.

Is it the same as the Capuchin convents in Bulle or Romont?

No. The order also had houses in Bulle (1665 to 2004) and Romont (1727 to 1979), but those are separate sites with their own histories.

What is the highlight inside the church?

The three rococo altarpieces and the large Descent from the Cross canvas.