Einsiedeln is located in the heart of Central Switzerland close to Zurich. The Benedictine Abbey of Einsiedeln is the most important baroque building in Switzerland. Since the Middle Ages the Chapel of Our Lady with the famous “Black Madonna” has been one of the most significant pilgrimage places in Europe.
A monk called “Meinrad” came to this region to live as hermit. After his violent death in 861, a chapel was built at the site of his hermitage. This is the origin of the city’s name, which means hermitage.
The history of the Benedictine Abbey dates back to 934, when a monastic community was founded at the site of St. Meinrad’s hermitage. The pilgrimage to Our Lady of Einsiedeln and her miraculously dedicated chapel developed in the subsequent centuries and attracted pilgrims from all over Europe.
In 1466, the present statue of the Madonna was brought to Einsiedeln and the place became the most important Marian shrine in Switzerland as well as a place of worship, hospitality and culture.
In 1704 the foundations were laid for the abbey complex and the magnificent baroque abbey church was consecrated in 1735.
Even today, the abbey is the home to a dynamic monastic community following the Rule of Saint Benedict. The monks teach at the Abbey School numbering about 350 students, serve in several parishes, and are available for the spiritual needs of the pilgrims.
Einsiedeln offers many attractions, such as the show cheese factory Milchmanufaktur, two ski jumps, the gingerbread and mineral museums, or the Diorama and Panorama. In summer, the region is a paradise for hiking, biking or simply relaxing. Lake Sihl is popular for swimming, wind surfing, sailing, fishing or a cruise aboard “MS Angelika”. People who like to be active will enjoy winter here. Einsiedeln is a cross-country ski paradise and offers all kind of winter sports such as skiing, sledding, snowshoeing and walking. Traditions, culture, and sport are very important and always play a central role in numerous events.
Hospitality has a long tradition in Einsiedeln. The village with its many diverse shops, cafés and restaurants is ideal for leisurely strolls combined with good food and friendly encounters.
Big stories in a place with big stories: Welttheater 2024 will take place from June 11th to September 7th in Einsiedeln.
In Mariazell, the Christmas magic begins as early as November. That’s when the Krampus parades take place – the traditional companions of Saint Nicholas, fearsome creatures straight from hell. It’s a true meeting of good and evil, a time of mischief and pranks that take over the town’s streets. Every year the tradition comes to life again, inviting both children and adults to join the fun. And only those who have been really naughty have anything to worry about…
Read more
Summer in the Shrines of Europe cities is the season of open-air events, concerts, festivals, performances, screenings, and picnics. Today, we’re taking you to Einsiedeln, where Openair Einsiedeln is about to begin — a musical celebration set in the stunning surroundings of a Benedictine monastery. Sounds intriguing, doesn’t it?
Read more
On the first weekend of July, Loreto transformed into a vibrant center of spirituality, culture and meetings. It was here, on July 4, that the third edition of the Shrines of Europe Festival took place – an event that proved once again that music, friendship and diversity can build real bridges between people and cities.
Read more
In Catholic tradition, May has for centuries been a month especially devoted to the veneration of the Virgin Mary. It is during May that the Litany of Loreto is recited in churches, roadside chapels dedicated to Mary are adorned with fresh flowers, special Marian services are held, and pilgrimages to Marian shrines increase.
Read more
Since yesterday, the Catholic Church has been in mourning. On April 21, 2025, Pope Francis died. Today, we recall the pilgrimages to the cities of the Shrines of Europe that the Holy Father made during his pontificate.
Read more
Dear Friends, On the occasion of Easter, we wish you joy, peace and many smiles during the first days of spring. May this special time be the beginning of new energy, inspiration and positive plans - also those related to travel!
Read more