Former Poor Clares Monastery Paradise Unterschlatt

The former Poor Clares monastery of Paradies (Kloster Paradies) stands in the municipality of Schlatt (TG), Canton Thurgau, a few kilometres east of Schaffhausen along the Rhine. Also known as Altparadies, the complex housed Poor Clare nuns for almost six centuries and remains one of the region's best-preserved monastic sites.

How did Paradies begin?

The community came from Konstanz, where the Poor Clares lived at St. Damian's. In 1253 Count Hartmann IV of Kyburg granted the sisters estates nearby, including land at Schwarzach and the patronage of its church. Disputes over some of the fiefs delayed the move. A charter of 1257 finally secured the gift and is usually regarded as the true founding document of the new convent. The name "Paradies" already appears in records from 1253. The parish church of St. Peter at Schwarzach was incorporated into the convent in 1310.

What happened afterwards?

A fire in 1587 forced a near-total rebuilding, which is why the present layout dates mostly from the 16th century. The convent ran until 1836, when it was dissolved. In 1918 the Schaffhausen company Georg Fischer AG bought the complex together with its farm estate.

What can you see today?

The federal ISOS inventory describes a walled group of 16th-century buildings with a park, plus a convent church from the early 16th century. The west wing holds the Eisenbibliothek, a library on iron and the history of technology run by Georg Fischer AG. The buildings also serve as a conference centre and as the company archive. Treat Paradies as a visit to historic monastic architecture rather than a ticketed attraction.

How do you get there?

The site lies on the Rhine about 4 km from central Schaffhausen, at roughly 47.684 N, 8.676 E. Driving, cycling or local transport towards Schlatt from Schaffhausen are the easiest options. Access to interiors can depend on events and the owner's rules, so check the Klostergut Paradies or library websites before you go.

When should you visit?

The outer parts of the complex are best seen in daylight and fair weather, combined with a walk along the Rhine. Spring and early autumn suit the park and the surrounding paths well.

Frequently asked questions

Who founded Paradies?

Count Hartmann IV of Kyburg, who gave estates to the Poor Clares of Konstanz in 1253. The gift was confirmed in 1257.

When did the convent close?

It was dissolved in 1836. Before that, the buildings were largely rebuilt after the fire of 1587.

Can you go inside?

Access depends on the owner's rules and on events. Check current information with the site's operator or the Eisenbibliothek.

Who owns the complex now?

Georg Fischer AG, since 1918. It runs an archive, a library and a conference centre here.