Sacred Monuments in Switzerland

Fluntern Cemetery

Zurych

Fluntern Cemetery (German: Friedhof Fluntern) is a graveyard in the Zürichberg district of Zurich, Switzerland. Most visitors come for one reason, the grave of James Joyce, but the quiet, leafy hillside cemetery has a calm character of its own and several other well-known names among its residents. Where is Fluntern Cemetery? The cemetery lies on the Zürichberg, the hill above central Zurich, close to the city zoo. The easiest way to find it is from the zoo tram terminus. The name comes from the former municipality of Fluntern, now part of the city. The cemetery opened in 1887. Who is buried at Fluntern Cemetery? The most famous resident is the Irish writer James Joyce, author of Ulysses, who died in Zurich in 1941. His grave is the main draw for literary pilgrims. His wife, Nora Barnacle, and their son are buried in the same grave. The Irish government once refused Nora's request to move his remains to Ireland, so Joyce stayed in Switzerland. A statue of the writer stands nearby and tends to catch visitors' attention. Just to the left of Joyce's grave lies Elias Canetti, winner of the 1981 Nobel Prize in Literature, who died in August 1994. Two major twentieth-century writers resting side by side makes the spot special for anyone who loves literature. Other people buried here include: Max Bircher-Benner, a physician and nutrition reformer who created the famous muesli, Kurt Früh, a Swiss film director, members of the Szondi family. What should you know before visiting? Fluntern is a working cemetery, so respectful behavior applies: keep your voice down, photograph with care, and give space to people visiting their own loved ones. The paths are peaceful and lined with trees, and the whole place feels more like a park. Graves of famous people are marked modestly, so it helps to check their location on a plan beforehand or ask for directions. Some visitors leave small tokens at Joyce's grave, but moderation is appreciated. How can you combine the visit with other sights? Its closeness to the zoo and the Zürichberg woods makes the cemetery an easy part of a half-day outing. You could follow a Joyce literary trail through the city, visit his grave, then walk the forest paths of the Zürichberg or stop by the zoo. For literature fans it is one of the most important stops in Zurich, and for everyone else it is simply a peaceful pause away from the city bustle. Frequently asked questions Is James Joyce buried at Fluntern Cemetery? Yes. The writer died in Zurich in 1941 and rests here with his wife Nora Barnacle and their son. Who else is buried there? Elias Canetti, the 1981 Nobel laureate, whose grave is right next to Joyce's, Max Bircher-Benner, the creator of muesli, and the film director Kurt Früh. Where exactly is the cemetery? In the Zürichberg district of Zurich, near the zoo. When did the cemetery open? In 1887. Is it a tourist attraction? Above all it is an active cemetery, but its famous graves draw many literature and history enthusiasts.

Jewish cemetery of Veyrier

Pas de l'Echelle

The Jewish cemetery of Veyrier is one of Europe's most unusual burial grounds: its entrance stands in the Swiss canton of Geneva, while the graveyard itself lies mostly on the French side of the border, near the Pas de l'Échelle. The national frontier runs through the site, which explains its remarkable status. Where is the cemetery exactly? It sits right on the Swiss-French border at the foot of the Salève massif, south of Geneva. The gate and the Swiss part of the grounds belong to the commune of Veyrier, while most of the burial area lies in the French commune of Étrembières in Haute-Savoie. Coordinates are roughly 46.1695 N, 6.1884 E. The Geneva Jewish community (COMISRA) lists the address as chemin de l'Arvaz 16, Veyrier. Why was a cemetery built on a border? According to the Swiss newspaper Le Temps, the cemetery was created in 1920. The Jewish cemetery in Carouge was filling up, and Geneva's laws of the time forbade denominational cemeteries. The solution was an agreement with the French commune of Étrembières, which provided land just across the line. Historian Jean Plançon, who is associated with the cemetery, describes it as the only one in the world located on a national border. How is the site divided? About two thirds of the area lies in France. The Genevan third includes an oratory, a car park and roughly 1,000 square metres of unused land, as described in the 2007 record of Geneva's Grand Council. Burials therefore take place on the French side, while access runs through Swiss territory. What is worth seeing? The oratory — a small chapel with notable stained glass, according to the Haute-Savoie Mont-Blanc tourism board. A border through a cemetery — a rare place where the crossing between two countries is neither marked nor felt by visitors. The setting — quiet, wooded slopes of the Salève. History and significance For decades the cemetery has served Geneva's Jewish community as a place of burial in line with tradition. Sources also mention that during the Second World War the site was used by refugees crossing the border. The question of burials on the Swiss side later featured in Geneva's debate on its cemetery law, which aimed to allow denominational sections, among other changes. Frequently asked questions Is the cemetery in Switzerland or France? Both: the entrance and part of the land are Swiss, while most of the graveyard is in France. Who manages it? The Geneva Jewish community, COMISRA, publishes information on the cemetery and is the right contact for visits and burials. Can I visit? It is an active denominational cemetery, so respect and discretion are expected. Check access rules with the administrator before going. Do I need a passport? The entrance is on the Swiss side, but because of the border location it is wise to carry identification. When is the best time to go? The place is quiet and suits a short, reflective visit in any season, preferably during daylight.

Friedhof Albisrieden

Zurych

Albisrieden Cemetery (Friedhof Albisrieden) is a small municipal graveyard in the Albisrieden district, in western Zurich. Opened in 1902, it covers just over one hectare and is listed in the city's inventory of garden monuments. For visitors interested in local history and landscape design, it is a quiet stop away from the usual tourist routes. Where is Albisrieden Cemetery? The cemetery lies in the west of Zurich, in the former village and now district of Albisrieden, at Untermoosstrasse 31, 8047 Zürich. The cemeteries of Altstetten and Eichbühl are nearby, and together they form the network of municipal burial grounds in western Zurich. The coordinates are roughly 47.379° N, 8.481° E. What is its history? The cemetery opened in 1902 and was extended in 1939. In 1981 the city council decided that burials would continue only until 2005 and that the site would be closed for good in 2027 and turned into a green space. Residents of the district protested. Because of that resistance, the decision was reversed in 2004, and the cemetery stayed. Why is it protected? In 2009 the city added the cemetery to its inventory of garden monuments. The former mortuary chapel from 1902 has been on the list of buildings worth protecting at municipal level since 2019. Today it serves as a service building, while farewell ceremonies take place at the nearby Eichbühl cemetery. What is there to see? The most notable modern feature is the communal grave created in 2010. It was designed by the landscape architects Ernst und Hausherr together with the artist Jürg Altherr. The cemetery has 16 communal graves, where about 1,100 of the roughly 3,000 people buried here rest. The whole site measures 10,052 square metres, so a walk around takes little time. How should you visit? This is a place of mourning and remembrance, not a tourist attraction. Keep quiet, do not photograph people at the graves, and stay on the paths. Current opening hours and visiting rules are published by Grün Stadt Zürich, the city department responsible for cemeteries. Frequently asked questions When was Albisrieden Cemetery established? In 1902, and it was extended in 1939. Is the cemetery a protected site? Yes. It has been in Zurich's inventory of garden monuments since 2009, and the former chapel from 1902 has been protected as a building of municipal significance since 2019. Was the cemetery meant to be closed? Yes. A 1981 decision planned closure in 2027, but after residents protested it was cancelled in 2004. What is the address? Untermoosstrasse 31, 8047 Zürich. How big is it? 10,052 square metres, just over one hectare. Who designed the communal grave? The firm Ernst und Hausherr and the artist Jürg Altherr, in 2010.

Cimetière des Rois

Genewa

The Cemetery of Kings (Cimetière des Rois) is the oldest surviving cemetery in Geneva and works as the city's unofficial pantheon. It sits in the Plainpalais district, a short distance from the Old Town, and for more than five hundred years it has received people who left a mark on Genevan history. Why is it called the Cemetery of Kings? The name is misleading, because no kings are buried here. The cemetery borders the Rue des Rois, and that street gave the place its name. Over the centuries the link has faded from memory, but the label stuck. How did the cemetery begin? It was established in 1482 as a burial ground for plague victims. Its first occupants were patients from the plague hospital next door. Over time, an epidemic cemetery grew into a site with far greater symbolic weight for the city. Who is buried here? A grave here is not available to just anyone. A plot can be granted to magistrates and distinguished figures whose lives and work contributed to Geneva's standing in the world. Those buried include: John Calvin, the Protestant reformer whose work shaped the city's religious and intellectual character, Jorge Luis Borges, the Argentine writer who spent his final years in Geneva, Jean Piaget, the world-renowned developmental psychologist, Sérgio Vieira de Mello, the UN diplomat, composer Frank Martin and conductor Ernest Ansermet, politician Georges Favon, commemorated by a three-metre rock monument. The last person laid to rest in a grave here was the choreographer Noemi Lapzeson, in January 2018. What is there to see? The memorials are unusually varied, from modest slabs to bronze and marble sculptures. A walk between the graves feels like a stroll through a sculpture garden and an open-air museum of Genevan history at once. The mature trees give the grounds a calm, park-like atmosphere. Guided visits that combine the story of Geneva with a look at the remarkable trees are organised from time to time. Frequently asked questions Are any kings buried at the Cemetery of Kings? No. The name comes from the neighbouring Rue des Rois. When was the cemetery founded? In 1482, as a burial place for plague victims. Can I see the graves of Calvin and Borges? Yes, both are buried here, alongside other well-known figures tied to Geneva. Are burials still held here? Plots are granted only exceptionally, to people who have served the city. The most recent burial in a grave took place in 2018. Is it a good place for a quiet walk? Yes. It is peaceful, green and full of interesting monuments, and it is easy to combine with a visit to the nearby city centre and Old Town, where most of Geneva's main sights are found.

Cemetery Sihlfeld

Zurych

Sihlfeld Cemetery (Friedhof Sihlfeld) is the largest cemetery in Zurich and also the city's largest continuous green space. It sits in the Wiedikon district and feels more like a park than a conventional burial ground, so it draws walkers and history lovers as well as mourners. Why visit? The cemetery was planned as the city's central burial ground, with construction beginning in 1877. It was laid out in the spirit of English garden cemeteries, with avenues, mature trees and open lawns where the city's noise fades quickly. It remains one of Zurich's best examples of this park-like approach to cemetery design. The grounds hold the first two crematoria in Switzerland. They no longer perform cremations, but the buildings are still in use as farewell halls. For anyone interested in architecture and changing burial customs, they are a notable piece of history. Who is buried here? Among the many historic gravestones and monuments are the graves of people known well beyond Zurich. Johanna Spyri, author of "Heidi", rests here, as does Henry Dunant, founder of the International Committee of the Red Cross. A walk here is a way to sightsee while discovering a bit of Swiss cultural and humanitarian history. What is new? The City of Zurich has created 27 graves for queer people, available to reserve since 2025. According to Swiss broadcaster SRF, eight have already been taken and three burials have taken place. It shows the cemetery is not just a heritage site but a living place that responds to the needs of residents. How to visit Plan one or two hours: stroll the main avenue, then wander the side paths among the older gravestones. Remember this is a working cemetery. Keep quiet, do not disturb ceremonies and avoid photographing people in mourning. Spring and autumn greenery make walking here especially pleasant. Frequently asked questions Where is Sihlfeld Cemetery? In Zurich's Wiedikon district, west of the city centre. Is it the largest cemetery in the city? Yes. According to the city, it is Zurich's largest burial ground and its largest continuous green area. Who is buried here? Among others, Johanna Spyri, author of "Heidi", and Henry Dunant, founder of the Red Cross. Can tourists visit? Yes, it is listed as a city sight, but it remains a place of remembrance, so calm and respect are expected. What are the crematoria on site? They are the first two crematoria in Switzerland. Today they serve as farewell halls rather than for cremation. Is there anything new in the burial options? Yes, since 2025 the city offers 27 graves for queer people. Sihlfeld Cemetery is a quiet stop for anyone who wants to see a calmer side of Zurich, learn about Swiss burial culture and catch their breath among trees, away from the crowds of the Old Town.

Friedhof am Hörnli

Riehen

Friedhof am Hörnli is the central cemetery of the city of Basel, located in the municipality of Riehen in the canton of Basel-Stadt. Covering more than 50 hectares, it is considered the largest cemetery in Switzerland by area. For visitors it is a place of remembrance, a vast green park and an example of interwar cemetery architecture all at once. What is the Hörnli cemetery? This is Basel's main burial ground. Although it lies administratively in Riehen, it serves the whole city and is the final resting place of many of its residents. The sheer size means a walk through it takes real time, and the layout of paths and numbered sections makes it easy to find your way around. History and architecture The cemetery was built between 1926 and 1932 to plans by a team of architects: Bräuninger, Burckhardt, Klingelfuss, Leu and Suter. Several practices working together produced a clearly ordered composition typical of Swiss modern building of that era. The last stage of expansion, section 12, known as "Im finsteren Boden", was carried out between 1960 and 1963. A crematorium also operates on the grounds, and in recent years it received a new building. What to see The overall layout – a spacious, green and quiet site that suits a slow walk. Karl Barth's grave – the resting place of one of the most important Protestant theologians of the 20th century, closely tied to Basel. University material on his life in the city names the cemetery as his last place of rest. Sammlung Friedhof Hörnli – a museum of cemetery and funeral culture, founded in 1994 and located on the grounds. It shows how customs around farewell to the dead have changed. Award-winning gravestones – the city has published a guide to distinguished grave monuments and trees in the cemetery, showing that the site has artistic and natural value as well. Opening hours The cemetery is open daily. From the last Sunday of March to the last Sunday of October it is open from 7:00 to 19:30. For the rest of the year, from the last Sunday of October to the last Sunday of March, hours are 8:00 to 17:30. Frequently asked questions Is the Hörnli cemetery still in use? Yes. It is Basel's working central cemetery, so visitors should stay quiet and respectful of people visiting graves. How big is it? It covers more than 50 hectares, making it the largest cemetery in Switzerland by area. When was it built? The main part was built between 1926 and 1932, and the last major expansion was completed in the early 1960s. Is there a museum? Yes. Sammlung Friedhof Hörnli, founded in 1994, tells the story of funeral culture and of the cemetery itself. Who is buried here? Among others, Karl Barth, the theologian associated with Basel. Practical tips Plan your visit around the opening hours, which change seasonally with the clock change. The grounds are extensive, so wear comfortable shoes and choose a goal in advance, such as the museum or a specific section. The cemetery lies outside central Basel, in the neighbouring municipality of Riehen, so check your route beforehand. Given the nature of the place, limit photography to general views and avoid photographing anyone in mourning.

St Blaise Chapel

Saint-Triphon

St Blaise Chapel in Saint-Triphon St Blaise Chapel is a historic Romanesque ruin on the Lessus hill above the village of Saint-Triphon, in the municipality of Ollon, canton of Vaud, Switzerland. Its walls tell a story spanning several centuries, and parts of them stand out clearly from later reconstruction work. What will I see on site? The visible remains belong to two chapels. The older, southern one is documented around 1174 in a deed of donation. The younger, northern one was added later and is attested in 1313. Guillaume de Pontverre is linked to its construction in the 13th century. The whole complex is Romanesque in style. Why is it a ruin? Over time the buildings fell out of religious use. Joseph Plepp's 1636 map of the Rhône already shows the chapel partly demolished. The ruin kept deteriorating until the end of the 19th century. How was it restored? In 1899 cantonal archaeologist Albert Naef began excavations. In 1901 a large campaign of rebuilding and consolidation followed. To mark the boundary of the ruin, crushed brick was added to the mortar, so original sections can still be told apart from the reconstructed ones today. A further partial restoration took place in 2009. What else is nearby? The same hill carries a square tower about 18 metres high, dated by sources to the 13th century and partly destroyed in 1476. In 1232 the Counts of Savoy granted the castle there to Guy de Saillon. The village of Saint-Triphon appears in the Swiss inventory of cultural property of national significance, so a stop at the chapel is also a chance to explore a wider group of heritage sites. Frequently asked questions When does the chapel date from? The older part is mentioned around 1174, the younger one in 1313. Is it an authentic ruin? Partly. Many walls were rebuilt in 1901, but the additions are marked with crushed brick in the mortar, so you can see what is original. Where exactly is it? On the Lessus hill above Saint-Triphon, municipality of Ollon, canton of Vaud. Coordinates are roughly 46.2957 N, 6.9774 E. Who led the excavations? Albert Naef, the cantonal archaeologist, starting in 1899. Who is it for? Anyone interested in medieval architecture, history and quiet viewpoints in the Vaud region. It is a short visit, but it shows how a ruin evolved over almost nine centuries: from a Romanesque foundation, through demolition and neglect, to twentieth-century conservation. Combine it with a look at the tower remains and the rest of the hill, which together give a clear picture of an old fortified and sacred site in this corner of Switzerland.

Kirchenruine San Gaudenzio

Maloja

Kirchenruine San Gaudenzio is the roofless remnant of a medieval pilgrimage church on a slope above Casaccia, in the Bregaglia municipality near Maloja (canton of Graubünden, Switzerland). Standing inside the walls, you look straight up at the sky. The site is free to visit. What is this place? The ruin sits in the upper Val Bregaglia, just beyond Maloja, where the road to the Septimer Pass branches off. For centuries Casaccia served travellers crossing the Alps, and the church stood on one of the routes used by pilgrims. The earliest records go back to the 9th century. Graubünden tourism pages cite the year 831, while the Historical Dictionary of Switzerland (HLS) lists the church around 840 as property of Pfäfers Abbey. The present building dates from 1518, in late Gothic style, raised on the remains of earlier structures. Why is it a ruin? During the Reformation in 1551, local people desecrated the church. Images and relics were destroyed, some of them thrown into the Orlegna stream. The building still served as a burial church until 1738, and after that it was left to decay. Who was Saint Gaudenzio? Local tradition says Gaudenzio came to the Bregaglia in the 4th century and was beheaded in a pine wood near Casaccia. He is said to have walked some 180 metres carrying his head to the spot where the church now stands. In 1518, the year the current church was built, he became patron saint of the League of God's House, one of the three leagues of the old Republic of Three Leagues. How do you get there? Reach Casaccia by road from Maloja or Vicosoprano, then climb the short path up the slope from the village. The ruin also lies on stage one of the Via Bregaglia trail (Maloja to Vicosoprano). The road section near San Gaudenzio was closed with a detour in the 2025 season, so check current conditions with the regional tourist office before you go. What will you see? nave walls with window openings and a doorway, open to the sky, views across the valley to the surrounding peaks, a quiet, little-visited spot that suits a short stop on a hike. When to visit Late spring to autumn is the easiest time, when the slopes are clear of snow. In winter the approach can be snowy, and the high valley turns cold quickly. Frequently asked questions Is there an entrance fee? No, the ruin is free to visit at any time of day. Can you go inside? Yes, the walls are accessible, but with no roof the weather affects how pleasant a visit is. How long does a visit take? The ruin itself takes about 15 to 30 minutes, a little longer including the walk up from Casaccia. Is it close to Maloja? Yes, Casaccia lies a few kilometres from Maloja in the upper valley, so San Gaudenzio combines easily with a walk along this stretch of the Val Bregaglia.

Chartreuse d'Oujon

Le Muids

Chartreuse d'Oujon is the ruined site of a medieval Carthusian monastery in the forest above Arzier-Le Muids, in the canton of Vaud, Switzerland. It stands at the foot of the Jura mountains, more than 1,000 metres above sea level, and today draws walkers looking for a quiet forest outing with a deep historical story. What was the Chartreuse d'Oujon? Notre-Dame d'Oujon was founded between 1146 and 1149 and was the first house of the Carthusian order in what is now Switzerland. It belonged to the diocese of Geneva. A tradition recorded in the 13th century names Louis de Mont as its founder. Donations of land built the community into a local lord of estates, and some of its former benefactors later clashed with it, among them the Benedictine abbey of Saint-Claude. In 1304 the monks granted the people of Arzier land and tax exemption to attract settlers. The parish of Arzier followed in 1306. Why did the monastery disappear? The Reformation ended it. The region was under Bernese rule, and a fire struck the monastery in 1536. Three monks refused to accept the new faith and left Oujon on 4 January 1537. The empty buildings decayed and vanished over time. What can you see today? Do not expect standing walls or a restored church. After the excavations, attempts to preserve the walls rising above ground failed, so they were reburied and their outlines marked on the surface. Earth mounds now show the layout of the old complex. Hikers still report seeing the cellar walls of several buildings in places, which helps convey the scale of the monastery. An archaeological trail with 12 information panels runs past the remains, and the site is protected as a monument of national importance. The visit is short, and the old forest setting suits the quiet that the Carthusians sought. How do you get to the Chartreuse d'Oujon? The ruins can only be reached on foot. The simplest route is the NStCM railway to the Arzier stop, then about 40 minutes of walking. You can also drive to Arzier-Le Muids and continue along forest tracks. Wear sturdy shoes, since forest paths can stay wet after rain. When is the best time to visit? Spring to autumn offers dry paths and easy reading of the panels. At over 1,000 metres, snow can lie in the woods in winter, so the walk needs different preparation then. Frequently asked questions Are there information panels on site? Yes, the archaeological trail along the ruins has 12 panels covering the old buildings and the monastery's history. How long is the walk from Arzier? Around 40 minutes on foot from the NStCM stop at Arzier. Do any monastery walls survive? The above-ground walls were buried to protect them. Their lines show as earth mounds, and some cellar wall sections are still visible. When did the monks leave? After the 1536 fire, three monks who rejected the Reformation left Oujon on 4 January 1537.

Tomb of Grisélidis Réal

Genewa

The Tomb of Grisélidis Réal is a headstone in the Cimetière des Rois, the "Cemetery of Kings", in Geneva's Plainpalais district. It marks the resting place of the Swiss writer, painter and sex workers' rights activist who lived from 1929 to 2005. The grave suits visitors looking for a less obvious side of Geneva: a story about who the city chooses to honour among its notable figures. Who was Grisélidis Réal? Réal wrote books, among them "La Passe imaginaire", and also painted. For years she spoke out publicly for the rights and dignity of sex workers, a trade she practised herself and wrote about. She died in 2005 at the age of 75. Her name now appears elsewhere in Geneva too. On 18 May 2026 the city inaugurated a square named after her in the Pâquis district, and in 2024 her name was among those proposed for streets honouring women. Why does this grave draw attention? The cemetery is nicknamed the "Genevan Pantheon". Burial there is reserved for people who raised Geneva's profile, as well as magistrates. Réal's interment therefore needed a decision from city authorities. She had asked to be buried here, and the wish was granted in 2009 after a heated controversy. Critics challenged the city council's decision, while supporters pointed to her standing in Geneva life as an author and campaigner. Commentators also noted how few women lie in this prestigious cemetery. Her grave stands roughly thirty metres from that of John Calvin, the best-known tomb on the site. The proximity of the two became a symbol of the debate. What else is there to see? The cemetery is small, with about 350 graves, and can be walked in an hour. Besides Calvin, burials include: Jorge Luis Borges, the Argentine writer, Sophie Dostoevsky, daughter of the Russian novelist, Émile Jaques-Dalcroze, the musician and educator, James Fazy and Adrien Lachenal, politicians, Sergio Vieira de Mello, the UN diplomat. Réal's own marker is a modest headstone. Official sources give no plot number, so check the cemetery layout on site or on the City of Geneva website. How do you get there? The cemetery lies in Plainpalais, in central Geneva, southwest of the Old Town. The coordinates are about 46.2021 N, 6.1360 E. From Cornavin station it is a walk of roughly fifteen minutes, or take a tram towards Plainpalais. Entry is free. When should you visit? Daylight hours in fine weather work best, when the paths are bright. This is a place of remembrance, so keep voices low, stay off the graves and photograph respectfully. Frequently asked questions Where exactly is Grisélidis Réal buried? In the Cimetière des Rois in Plainpalais, about thirty metres from John Calvin's tomb. When was she buried there? Her remains were moved there in 2009, several years after she died in 2005. The decision sparked a public dispute in Geneva. Is the cemetery free to enter? Yes. It is open to the public at no charge. Who else is buried at the cemetery? Among others, Calvin, Borges, Sophie Dostoevsky, Émile Jaques-Dalcroze and Sergio Vieira de Mello.

Grave of Mikhail Bakunin

Berno

The Grave of Mikhail Bakunin in Bern marks the burial place of the Russian revolutionary and anarchist thinker who died in the Swiss capital on 1 July 1876. It lies in the Bremgartenfriedhof, one of the city's largest cemeteries, and is among the most visited graves there. Who is buried here? Mikhail Bakunin (1814–1876) was a leading figure of nineteenth-century European anarchism. In 1872 he took part in the founding of the Anti-Authoritarian International in St-Imier in the Swiss Jura, a body that broke with the line of Karl Marx. He spent his last years in Switzerland and died in Bern, where he was laid to rest. Where exactly is the grave? The Bremgartenfriedhof opened in 1865 as a replacement for the older Monbijou cemetery. The city's list of notable burials places Bakunin in section 9201, grave number 68. Take the cemetery map published by Stadtgrün Bern with you: the paths are numerous, and the headstone is modest and easy to walk past. What will you see? The earlier memorial plate was replaced in 2015 by a bronze portrait of Bakunin made by the Swiss artist Daniel Garbade and carrying a quotation from the revolutionary. The project was backed by Dadaists linked to Zurich's Cabaret Voltaire, the birthplace of Dada, a neat link between the anarchist tradition and the artistic avant-garde. Visitors leave flowers and small tokens. The Swiss newspaper Le Temps reports that anarchist sympathisers sometimes pop champagne at the grave in his honour. It remains a working cemetery, so keep your voice down and respect other mourners. Who else is buried at the Bremgartenfriedhof? The cemetery is a convenient place to see the graves of several well-known people. According to the city's list, they include Theodor Kocher, the Nobel-winning surgeon, the socialist politician Robert Grimm, Charles Albert Gobat, who received the Nobel Peace Prize in 1902, and the singer-songwriter Mani Matter. History fans can turn the visit into a longer walk. When should you visit? The cemetery is open year round, and late spring and early autumn give the most pleasant walking weather. Bakunin died on 1 July, so that date is a natural moment for a visit. Check current opening hours on the City of Bern website. Frequently asked questions Is there an entrance fee? No. The Bremgartenfriedhof is an active municipal cemetery and free to enter. How do I find Bakunin's grave? Look for section 9201, grave 68, and use the cemetery map from Stadtgrün Bern. What is on the headstone now? Since 2015, a bronze portrait of Bakunin by Daniel Garbade with a quotation from him. When did Bakunin die? On 1 July 1876, in Bern.

Grave of Henry Dunant

Zurych

The Grave of Henry Dunant in Zurich marks the resting place of the man behind the founding of the Red Cross. It lies in Sihlfeld Cemetery in the Wiedikon district, close to the main entrance. Who was Henry Dunant, and why visit his grave? Dunant, also written Henri, was a Swiss humanitarian and businessman and a co-founder of the Red Cross. In 1901 he received the very first Nobel Peace Prize. He died on 30 October 1910 in Heiden and was laid to rest in Zurich. The grave is a quiet stop for anyone interested in the history of humanitarian aid. It is not a ticketed attraction. What does the grave look like? Visitors describe a plot that stands fairly apart near the cemetery entrance and is larger than the neighbouring graves. It is a simple memorial among the paths, with no museum and no long interpretive signs, so read a little about Dunant beforehand. A visit on site takes about a quarter of an hour. What is Sihlfeld Cemetery? The City of Zurich opened Sihlfeld in 1877 as its first central cemetery for all residents, regardless of class or religion. A crematorium was planned from the start and was built ten years later, the first of its kind in Switzerland. Today it is the largest cemetery in Zurich, covering roughly 200,000 square metres, and one of the larger green spaces in the city centre. It was extended several times, in stages between 1877 and 1964. Who else is buried here? Sihlfeld holds many well-known names. They include Johanna Spyri, author of "Heidi", the writer Gottfried Keller, the German Social Democrat August Bebel, and the authors Alfred Polgar and Walter Mehring. You can easily combine Dunant's grave with a few others on one walk. How do I get there, and when should I go? The cemetery is at Aemtlerstrasse 149-151, 8003 Zurich. The grounds are open during the day. One listing gives 7:00 to 20:00 from 1 May to 31 August, so check the city's website for the other months. Go in the morning or early afternoon in daylight, when it is calm. Entry is free. How should I behave? This is a working cemetery, not a park. Keep your voice down, stay off the graves and take your litter with you. Take photos discreetly so you do not disturb people visiting their own relatives. Frequently asked questions Where exactly is Henry Dunant's grave? In Sihlfeld Cemetery at Aemtlerstrasse 149-151 in Zurich's Wiedikon district. Visitors place it near the entrance. Is there an entrance fee? No. The cemetery is open to the public during the day, though opening hours can change with the season. How long should I plan for? The grave itself takes about fifteen minutes. If you also want to see the graves of Spyri, Keller or Bebel, allow around an hour for an unhurried walk. Did Dunant die in Zurich? No. He died in Heiden in 1910 and was buried in Zurich at Sihlfeld Cemetery.

Christ the King statue

Chelin

The Christ the King statue (Christ-Roi) at Chelin crowns the Châtelard hill above the village of Lens in the Swiss canton of Valais, at about 1,272 m above sea level. Chelin is a former village now within the municipality of Lens, set on a sunny terrace over the Rhône valley next to the resort of Crans-Montana. The monument dates from 1935 and makes an easy, quiet outing with big views. What is this monument and who paid for it? The statue was inaugurated in September 1935 to mark nineteen centuries since the death of Jesus. Canon Pierre Gard started the project, and it became the main achievement of his career. The bill came to roughly 42,000 francs, raised through gifts from local people and parishes across the region. Do not confuse it with other Christ the King monuments such as those in Lisbon, Świebodzin or Rio de Janeiro. This one is far more modest, but its alpine setting is hard to beat. What will you see? The figure rises from a massive base that holds a chapel and crypt. Inside you will find frescoes, the coats of arms of the thirteen districts of Valais and images of several saints. The terrace at the foot of the statue opens onto a wide panorama: the Rhône valley lies far below, and across it stand the Bernese and Pennine Alps. How do you get there? On foot from Lens: about 1.3 km uphill along a path lined with the fourteen Stations of the Cross. It is steep but short. By car: a car park sits below the summit, leaving only a short walk. From Crans-Montana: a few kilometres away, so the statue fits easily into a day around the area. Access to the hill is free and open all year. When should you go? Choose a clear part of the day so you can see the valley floor and the mountains opposite. In summer, aim for morning or late afternoon. In winter, check the path for ice, since snow often lingers. Allow about an hour for the climb and the visit. Frequently asked questions Is there an entrance fee? No. The site is free to visit all year. How far is it from the centre of Lens? About 1.3 km on foot, along the Way of the Cross. Can you go inside? The base contains a chapel with a crypt, but access depends on opening hours. The outdoor terrace is always open. Can you drive there? Yes, there is a car park below the summit. You cover the last stretch on foot.

St. Magdalene Hermitage

Düdingen

St. Magdalene Hermitage (Magdalena-Einsiedelei) near Düdingen is a hermitage carved by hand into a sandstone cliff in the canton of Fribourg, Switzerland. It sits above Lake Schiffenen close to the hamlet of Räsch, between Düdingen (French: Guin) and the city of Fribourg, and stretches for 120 metres. What is this place? The complex is a chain of rooms cut into soft molasse rock: a chapel, a sacristy, living cells and utility spaces. A hermit is already mentioned at Räsch in 1448, and from 1609 onwards records name a succession of recluses, known as the "brothers of the forest of St. Mary Magdalene". Most of the excavation was done by the hermit Jean Dupré and his helper Jean Liecht, who spent more than 20 years between 1680 and 1708 chiselling the rock by hand. When was the chapel built? Bishop Pierre de Montenach consecrated the rock chapel on 8 July 1691 in honour of Mary Magdalene. The last resident left in 1967. The site is rated a cultural asset of national importance, and the parish carried out major stabilisation work in 2005 and 2006 to prevent the cliff from collapsing. What will you see? Beyond the rooms the hermits carved, look down at the floor. Its uneven surface consists of fossilised dunes from a Tertiary sea roughly 20 million years old, exposed by erosion after the excavations. You walk over human labour and an ancient seabed at once. Outside, the view opens onto Lake Schiffenen, whose dam was completed in 1963. Before the reservoir the caves stood high above the Sarine valley floor; today they overlook the water. How do you get there? Walking is the best approach. A well-known hike leads from Düdingen along the lake to the hermitage and on to Fribourg (the Poya area). You can also combine it with a loop around the reservoir. Check the Fribourg Region hiking map or the website of the Düdingen parish, which looks after the site, for the exact route. When should you visit? The hermitage is open from 1 April to 31 October. Entry is free, and the parish asks for voluntary donations towards upkeep. The interior is cool and damp, so bring a warm layer even in summer, and sturdy shoes for the lakeside paths. Frequently asked questions Is there an entrance fee? No. Entry is free; donations are welcome. How long is the complex? The carved rooms total about 120 metres. Who carved the hermitage? Mainly the hermit Jean Dupré and his companion Jean Liecht between 1680 and 1708, although hermits lived here earlier. When is it open? From 1 April to 31 October; it is closed the rest of the year.

Disentis Abbey

Disentis/Mustér

Disentis Abbey (German Kloster Disentis, Romansh Claustra Mustér) is a working Benedictine monastery in Disentis/Mustér, in the Surselva region of the Swiss canton of Graubünden. The town grew up around it, at the point where routes split towards the Lukmanier and Oberalp passes. How did the abbey begin? Tradition holds that the monk Sigisbert settled as a hermit in the Desertina area, backed by a local landowner named Placidus, who was later killed and revered as a martyr. An older account gave 614 as the founding year; archaeology now points to a first building around 700. One of the earliest surviving documents is the Tello testament of 765. In its heyday the abbey's estates stretched from near Brigels to the Furka Pass and even into Lombardy. It joined the Swiss Benedictine Congregation in 1617. What is there to see? The centrepiece is the Baroque church of St Martin. It was rebuilt under Abbot Adalbert III de Funs (1696–1712), probably to a design by Caspar Moosbrugger, with the shell finished in 1704 and the consecration following in 1712. A fire in 1799 brought down the vault over the front of the choir and destroyed the high altar. The choir was thoroughly restored in 1914 and the nave in 1925–26. After fires in 1799 and 1846 the convent building was altered and given an extra storey. A museum in the monastery wing displays art and cultural history from the Middle Ages onwards, plus a section on the region's geology and wildlife. There is also an abbey shop. The complex is listed in the Swiss federal inventory of cultural property. Do monks still live here? Yes. The community runs a secondary school leading to the Swiss school-leaving certificate, open to Swiss and international students as day pupils or boarders. The monks follow the Benedictine rule of prayer, study and work. The feast of the founding saints, Sigisbert and Placidus, falls on 11 July and is marked on the preceding Sunday. How do you get there, and when should you go? Disentis/Mustér is served by the Rhaetian Railway and the Furka-Oberalp line, so the abbey is an easy rail trip from Chur or Andermatt. The church welcomes visitors daily. The museum keeps limited hours, in summer only on selected afternoons, so check current times first. Summer and early autumn are the best seasons, and mid-July brings the festivities for the founding saints. Frequently asked questions Is Disentis Abbey still active? Yes. A Benedictine community lives here and runs a boarding school. When was the church built? The present Baroque church of St Martin dates from 1696–1712 and replaced earlier medieval buildings. Can I visit the museum? Yes. It covers art, cultural history and regional nature, but opening hours are limited. How do I reach the abbey from Chur? Take the Rhaetian Railway towards Disentis/Mustér; the abbey stands just above the town.

Saint-Benoît de Port-Valais

Port-Valais

Saint-Benoît Abbey (Abbaye Saint-Benoît de Port-Valais) is a Benedictine monastery in Le Bouveret, in the municipality of Port-Valais, canton of Valais, Switzerland, on the eastern shore of Lake Geneva. It is a place for prayer, retreat and rest rather than a ticketed sightseeing stop. What is Saint-Benoît Abbey? The community is dedicated to Saint Benedict and Saint Michael. The second dedication recalls the medieval priory of Port-Valais, whose church was recorded under Saint Michael's name in 1445. The Benedictine monastery directory dates the abbey to 1924, while the Historical Dictionary of Switzerland says monks from Corbières settled in Le Bouveret in 1956 and the community was then raised to abbey status. It stands outside any congregation and answers directly to the Benedictine Confederation. A foundation set up in 2022 exists to maintain and develop the monastic church and cloister. What should you know about the area? Port-Valais lies where the Rhône enters Lake Geneva, below the Grammont massif. The municipality takes in Le Bouveret, Les Evouettes and the hamlet of Port-Valais itself. People settled on the Port-Valais hill in Roman times, and the place name is recorded in 1180. The priory was probably founded by the counts of Geneva, who handed it in the early 12th century to the Benedictine abbey of Saint-Michel de la Cluse in Piedmont. Remains of its church date from the late 11th or early 12th century. Where can you stay and what else is nearby? Maison Sainte-Marthe, the guesthouse beside the monastery, offers about thirty single rooms for people recovering from illness or seeking quiet and spiritual renewal. Le Bouveret is also a lakeside leisure town: a 600-berth marina (1975), the Swiss Vapeur Parc miniature railway (1987) and an aquapark (1999). How do you get there? The address is 38, route de l'Église, CH-1897 Le Bouveret. The village has had railway service since 1859, and the centre is a short walk from the station. For service times and visiting arrangements, check abbaye-st-benoit.ch or write to [email protected]. Frequently asked questions Can you visit the abbey? The community welcomes people looking for peace and prayer. Contact the monastery in advance and respect the monks' daily rhythm. Can you stay overnight? Yes, at Maison Sainte-Marthe, a guesthouse with roughly thirty single rooms. When was the abbey founded? The Benedictine directory gives 1924. According to the Historical Dictionary of Switzerland, the community from Corbières settled in Le Bouveret in 1956. Where is Le Bouveret? On Lake Geneva in the canton of Valais, close to the mouth of the Rhône and not far from the French border.

Dominikanerinnenkloster St. Peter am Bach

Schwyz

Dominican Convent of St. Peter am Bach in Schwyz is a monastery complex at Strehlgasse 18 in the town centre, in the canton of Schwyz. The Swiss inventory of cultural property (KGS) lists it as a significant site, made up of a church and a square cloister. It ranks among the oldest women's convents in central Switzerland. How did the convent begin? Knight Hartmann von Schwyz endowed the foundation in 1275. The first convent buildings and the church followed after 1283. A cloister wall was added in 1609, the church and cloister were rebuilt in 1639-42, and the guesthouse with its small oriel tower dates from 1698-1700. What can you see? From the street you see the compact convent block, the guesthouse and the west facade of the church. The Swiss art guide (GSK) records three valuable altars in the church by Carlo Andrea Galetti. Part of the complex is a working enclosure, so visits are limited to areas open to guests. A community of Dominican sisters still lives here. What role did it play in the region? After a fire in 1640, the Schwyz authorities ordered the Dominican sisters of nearby Steinen to merge into St. Peter am Bach, and most of the Steinen buildings were pulled down. The Historical Dictionary of Switzerland (HLS) counts Schwyz among the Dominican women's convents that survived into the modern era. Federal archives hold records of restoration and excavation work from 1963-1971. How do you get there, and when should you go? The convent stands on Strehlgasse in Schwyz, at roughly 47.0199 N, 8.6564 E. Schwyz is the cantonal capital beneath the Mythen peaks, so a visit pairs easily with a stroll through the old town and the Hauptplatz. The exterior can be viewed in any season; check church access times directly with the community or the parish. Frequently asked questions When was St. Peter am Bach founded? The foundation dates to 1275, with the first buildings and church following after 1283. Is the convent still occupied? Yes, a community of Dominican sisters lives there, which is why part of the complex is enclosed. What stands out inside the church? Three altars by Carlo Andrea Galetti, and a rebuild carried out in 1639-42. Where exactly is it? In Schwyz, at Strehlgasse 18, canton of Schwyz.

Convento di Santa Maria Assunta

Sala Capriasca

The Santa Maria Assunta monastery complex at Bigorio, in the municipality of Sala Capriasca in Ticino, is the oldest Capuchin foundation on what is now Swiss soil. It sits on a wooded slope above the village, in the hills north-east of Lugano, and still works as a place of quiet, prayer and hospitality. What is the Bigorio convent? Two friars founded it in 1535: Pacifico Carli, a mason from Lugano, and Ludovico Filicaia from Florence. It was the first Capuchin house in the Swiss lands. In 1565 some of the brothers moved on to a new convent at Sorengo. An older chapel dedicated to Santa Maria, dating from the 13th century, stood here before the Capuchins arrived and belonged to the parish of St Stephen in Tesserete. Saint Charles Borromeo consecrated it as a monastery church in 1577. Until 1888 the convent belonged to the diocese of Como, then to the Apostolic Administration of Ticino, and since 1971 to the diocese of Lugano. What can you see? The church of Santa Maria Assunta – a plain rectangular nave with a choir. Inside is a Renaissance Madonna and Child; tradition says the Savoy court gave it to the friars. The convent buildings – the present form comes from a rebuild in 1760–1767, followed by further additions in the 20th century. Via Crucis chapels – the outdoor Stations of the Cross date from 1797 and line a path through the trees. Museo del Bigorio – a small collection of objects tied to Capuchin daily life and devotion. How do you get to Bigorio? The convent stands above Sala Capriasca in the Capriasca valley, at roughly 46.072 N, 8.950 E. The easiest approach is by car or bus to Tesserete, then a walk uphill along a forest road. The surrounding hills are popular with hikers, so you can combine the visit with a longer walk. Can you stay overnight? Since 1967 the convent has served as a centre for spiritual and cultural formation and keeps up a long tradition of welcoming guests. Rooms are available, including a bed-and-breakfast called Ar Convént. It suits anyone who wants calm away from the bustle of Lugano. When is the best time to visit? Spring and autumn, when the woods are colourful and the paths are dry. In summer the shade and altitude keep it cool. This is a working convent, so keep your voice low, dress modestly and respect prayer times. Frequently asked questions Who founded the Bigorio convent? Pacifico Carli of Lugano and Ludovico Filicaia of Florence, in 1535. Is it really the first Capuchin convent in Switzerland? Yes. The Historical Dictionary of Switzerland calls it the first Capuchin settlement in the Swiss lands. Who consecrated the church? Saint Charles Borromeo, in 1577. Can visitors stay the night? Yes. The convent offers guest accommodation and the Ar Convént bed and breakfast. Booking ahead is wise.

Former Poor Clares Monastery Paradise Unterschlatt

Schlatt (TG)

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.

Gnadenthal monastery

Nesselnbach

Gnadenthal Monastery in Nesselnbach (municipality of Niederwil, canton of Aargau) is a former Cistercian nunnery in the Bremgarten district, close to the Reuss river. The complex still stands, but for more than a century it has served a very different purpose from its medieval one: it houses the Reusspark care centre. How did Gnadenthal begin? The story starts in the 13th century. Before 1279, devout women who belonged to no order lived in Niederwil, and Beguines joined them over time. Towards the end of the century the Cistercians of Wettingen took over their spiritual guidance, and the sisters adopted Cistercian rules. The community was formally incorporated into the order only on 17 September 1394, when the General Chapter raised it to the status of an abbey. What happened to the convent? A fire in 1432, and probably the plague as well, left the house short of money and members. It passed through the Reformation without serious trouble and flourished again during the Catholic reform and Baroque periods. Decline set in before 1700, with fewer women joining, and from 1761 only one prioress remained. After the Aargau monastery dispute of 1841 the nuns fled to Frauenthal and returned in 1843. In 1876 the canton dissolved the convent for good and sold the buildings. Since 1894 the site has been a care institution, known as Reusspark since 1998. What can you see today? According to the Aargau heritage inventory, the church dates from the early 17th century and was lengthened and given a Baroque look in 1687. The interior has a set of altars from 1748, a pulpit from around 1687 and a painted ceiling from the 19th century. The inventory also lists a late-Gothic refectory ceiling from about 1470, a Baroque room with stucco from around 1680, and a barn and stable built in 1907-08. From the outside you can read how the medieval monastic layout merged with later additions. When should you visit, and how do you plan it? The complex sits in open farmland between Zurich and Lucerne, so it pairs well with a day trip through the Reuss valley and the Freiamt region. Spring and summer give the best light for photographing the exterior and the greenery around it. Parts of the buildings are used by residents of the care centre, so keep their privacy in mind and check the current access rules before planning to see any interiors. Frequently asked questions Do nuns still live at Gnadenthal? No. The canton of Aargau dissolved the convent in 1876 and sold the buildings. A care institution has operated here since 1894. Which order did the monastery belong to? It was a Cistercian nunnery, advised by the Cistercian monks of Wettingen. It gained abbey status in 1394. How old is the church? It dates from the early 17th century. In 1687 it was extended and remodelled in the Baroque style. Where exactly is the monastery? In Nesselnbach, in the municipality of Niederwil, Bremgarten district, canton of Aargau, near the Reuss.

Wonnenstein Monastery with convent

Wonnenstein Monastery (Kloster Wonnenstein) in Niederteufen is a former Capuchin convent of Franciscan tertiary sisters in the municipality of Teufen, canton of Appenzell Ausserrhoden, Switzerland. Dedicated to Mary, the complex stands in the hills above the Sitter valley a few kilometres from St. Gallen and is listed among Switzerland's cultural properties of national importance. Which canton is it actually in? Wonnenstein has an unusual legal status. It sits inside Teufen, in Ausserrhoden, yet the ground within the convent walls belongs to the neighbouring canton of Appenzell Innerrhoden, making it an exclave. The question of who owned it dragged on after Appenzell split in 1597. A federal decision in 1870 settled it: land inside the walls went to Innerrhoden, the surrounding farmland stayed with Ausserrhoden. Some databases therefore list it under Schlatt-Haslen, though on the ground you are in the Niederteufen area. What is its history? The story begins with a community of Beguines in the 13th century. Around 1379 to 1381, Abbot Kuno von Stoffeln of St. Gallen gave a group of devout women a farmstead, usually taken as the convent's founding. In the 15th century the sisters were under the Upper German Conventual Franciscans, and the Reformation briefly cost them their home. The turning point came in 1596, when Anna Wäspi of Jonschwil, sent from Pfanneregg convent near Wattwil, became superior and introduced the Pfanneregg reform, bringing Capuchin influence with it. The 17th century was Wonnenstein's high point economically and culturally. It had 21 sisters in 1616, 47 in 1938 and 11 in 2000. No new sisters joined after 1964. Wonnenstein also served as mother house of Jakobsbad convent, founded in 1851, and since 1958 it has belonged to the St. Clare Federation of Capuchin nuns. What is there today? The community shrank steadily until a single sister remained in recent years. Since 2014 the association Kloster Maria Rosengarten Wonnenstein has been the convent's successor. In 2023 the Appenzell Innerrhoden government published a statement on the site's future, explaining the change of legal form in view of the approaching end of the community. How do you get there? From St. Gallen, take the Appenzeller Bahnen line towards Appenzell to Teufen or Niederteufen, then walk a short way along rural roads. By car, follow the road from St. Gallen through Teufen. Who is it for? Wonnenstein suits visitors interested in religious and regional history of Appenzell, convent architecture and the rolling landscape of the Appenzellerland. It pairs well with a walk around Teufen and a visit to St. Gallen and its abbey district. Frequently asked questions Which canton is Wonnenstein in? Physically in Teufen, canton of Appenzell Ausserrhoden, but the land within the walls belongs to Appenzell Innerrhoden. Who founded the convent? It grew out of a 13th-century Beguine community. Around 1379 Abbot Kuno von Stoffeln of St. Gallen gave it a homestead. The Capuchin character stems from the reform of 1596. Do sisters still live there? Numbers fell from 47 in 1938 to a single sister in recent years. Since 2014 the association Kloster Maria Rosengarten Wonnenstein has looked after the site. What order is it, and to whom is it dedicated? It is a Capuchin convent of the Third Order of St. Francis, dedicated to Mary.

Kirche und Klosteranlage der Zisterzienserinnenabtei Frauenthal

Cham

Frauenthal Abbey church and monastery complex (Kloster Frauenthal) stands near Cham in the canton of Zug, in the Lorze valley north of Hagendorn. It is a working Cistercian convent, regarded as the oldest of its order in Switzerland still occupying its original site. Where is Frauenthal? The buildings sit on an island formed by the Lorze river, in a quiet valley in canton Zug (about 47.213 N, 8.424 E). From Zug or Zurich it makes an easy countryside outing, and it pairs well with a walk along the river. How did the convent begin? Sources give different dates. The Historical Lexicon of Switzerland (HLS) places the founding between 1240 and 1244, when women from a Beguine community at Hausen am Albis settled on the Lorze island. The island itself was given by noble founders, and the gift is dated to 1231, which explains why tourism pages quote that year. In 1245 the community joined the Cistercian Order. Kappel Abbey provided spiritual oversight from the mid-13th century, and in the 15th century Cîteaux took over. What happened over the centuries? Secular protection came first from the founders and, from the 14th century, from the Habsburgs. In 1386 the convent signed a citizenship pact with the town of Zug, renewed in 1674. Its income came from land around the island, scattered estates between the Lorze, Albis and Reuss, vineyards on Lake Zurich and lordship rights over Frauenthal-Islikon. During the Reformation, in 1528, the nuns left and handed the convent to the Zug council; it was restored in 1552. What will you see? The complex includes a church with 13th-century roots and a Rococo interior, plus two enclosed cloister courtyards. The buildings were heavily remodelled in the 17th and 18th centuries and underwent a thorough restoration in the 1990s. An abbess leads the community today, which counted nine sisters in 2025, living by the Benedictine rule in the Cistercian tradition. A foundation set up in 2021 aims to preserve the entire complex for the long term. When to go and how to behave Frauenthal is a living religious house, so keep quiet and respect the sisters' privacy. Check the convent's own website for the hours when the church can be entered. The Lorze valley looks best in spring and autumn, when walking around the area is comfortable. Frequently asked questions Do nuns still live at Frauenthal? Yes. The convent has remained active, and a Cistercian community lives there today. How old is the monastery? The island was donated around 1231, the convent settled in 1240–1244, and it joined the Cistercian Order in 1245. What is architecturally notable? A church with 13th-century origins and a Rococo interior, together with two enclosed courtyards. Where exactly is it? On an island in the Lorze river, north of Hagendorn, in the municipality of Cham, canton Zug.

Uznach Abbey

Uznach

St. Otmarsberg Abbey in Uznach is a Missionary Benedictine monastery in the Swiss canton of St. Gallen, standing above the small town of Uznach. Travel listings call it "Uznach Abbey", but it is a living religious community rather than a museum or a ruin. It belongs to the Congregation of Missionary Benedictines of St. Ottilien. What is the abbey in Uznach? Andreas Amrhein founded the St. Ottilien Congregation in Bavaria to carry out mission work outside Europe. In 1916 he sent one monk to Switzerland to recruit members and gather support for the missions. After Germany's defeat in World War I, neutral Switzerland offered the congregation a safer base. The Benediktusheim opened in Uznach in September 1919 as a branch of St. Ottilien Archabbey, and for decades it served as a support hub for missions in Africa and Asia. How did its status change? 1937: a student house, the Benedictinum, is founded in Fribourg. 1947: the Benedictinum becomes an independent priory. 1963: the Uznach and Fribourg communities merge as St. Otmarsberg. 6 January 1982: the monastery becomes an abbey and canonically independent. Ivo Auf der Maur was the first abbot, followed by Marian Eleganti, who served until 2009. In 2013 the monks elected Emmanuel Rutz as the third abbot. English Wikipedia lists the current superior as Fr Adelrich Staub, Prior Administrator. What will you see? The main building is the monastery church, designed by Herbert Oberholzer and consecrated in 1988. It is a late 20th-century church, not a medieval landmark. For the centenary in 2019 the monks laid out a mission trail with twelve stelae telling the story of the Missionary Benedictines. The abbey welcomes guests and organises an annual pilgrimage to Lourdes with around 2,000 participants. Who lives here? The community counted 28 monks in 2010, six of them working in Africa and two in Kazakhstan. By 2019 there were 21, with an average age of about 66. The monastery still raises funds and sends personnel to Benedictine missions in the Global South. When should you visit? For a quiet visit, choose a weekday away from major feast days. If you plan to attend a service, check current times on the abbey's official website, as the sources we used give no fixed schedule. The mission trail is an open-air route, so it suits fair weather best. Frequently asked questions Is Uznach Abbey a medieval monument? No. The community dates from 1919, and the present church was consecrated in 1988. Who are the Missionary Benedictines? They are monks of the St. Ottilien Congregation who combine monastic life with mission work, mainly in Africa and Asia. Can visitors see the monastery? The abbey receives guests, and a mission trail with twelve stelae runs nearby. Confirm visiting rules and service times with the community. Why was a missionary monastery founded in Switzerland? After World War I, a neutral country was a practical base for a German congregation running distant missions.

Dominican Convent of Mary's Refuge

Weesen

Maria Zuflucht Dominican Convent in Weesen (Dominikanerinnenkloster Maria Zuflucht) sits in the middle of the small town of Weesen on Lake Walensee, in the canton of St. Gallen. It is the oldest convent of Dominican nuns in Switzerland, with roots in the mid-13th century. What is Maria Zuflucht? A community of sisters is on record here from 1256, founded by Count Rudolf IV of Rapperswil. In 1259 the count exempted it from certain dues and endowed it with land. From the later 13th century the nuns probably lived under the Augustinian Rule. In the 15th century the house was dedicated to St. Verena; it took its present name, Maria Zuflucht ("Mary's Refuge"), in 1699. The convent also shaped the town. Weesen was destroyed in 1388 after the Battle of Näfels, and in the early 1400s it was rebuilt as an open settlement grouped around the convent. What can you see? The complex stands at the foot of a terraced hillside, close to where the Linth river leaves the Walensee. The buildings you see today date from 1688 to 1690. Visitors can enter the convent church and the guest house. The enclosed quarters, library and archive are closed to the public. The sisters run a bakery with a small shop, bake altar breads, and operate a workshop that makes candles and icons, which makes for an authentic souvenir from Weesen. The guest house takes women aged 18 to 40 for short stays in the rhythm of convent life. How to plan your visit Allow 20 to 30 minutes for the church as part of a stroll through Weesen. Pair it with the lakeside promenade and the Bühlkirche (Heiligkreuzkirche auf Bühl), a separate church in town and not the convent church. Check opening hours, Mass times and guest-house booking with the sisters before you go. How to get there Weesen lies on the railway line along the Walensee, and the convent is a short walk from the centre and the stops. The town has good connections to Zurich and Glarus, and drivers can reach it by the A3 motorway along the lake. Frequently asked questions Can you visit the convent in Weesen? Yes, but only the church and the guest house. The sisters' living quarters, library and archive are not open. When was the convent founded? The community is documented from 1256. The current buildings went up in 1688 to 1690, and the name Maria Zuflucht dates from 1699. Can I buy anything from the sisters? Yes. The convent has a bakery and a workshop producing candles and icons. Who can stay in the guest house? Short stays are offered to women aged 18 to 40.