Wurmsbach Abbey

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Wurmsbach Abbey (Kloster Mariazell-Wurmsbach) is a Cistercian nunnery located in Bollingen near Rapperswil, in the Canton of St. Gallen, Switzerland. It is located on the north shore of Lake Zurich. The house is now part of the Order of the Cistercians of the Primitive Congregation (OCist).

1 History
2 Sights
3 Activities
4 External link

[edit] History

Count Rudolf of Rapperswil gave his castle of Wurmsbach together with a considerable area of land in 1259 for the foundation of a religious house. In 1261 the nunnery was established, initially linked to the Abbey of St. Urban in Wettingen. The abbey church was dedicated in 1281.

During the first Battle of Villmergen in 1656 and also during the French invasion in 1789 the nuns were obliged to flee. On both occasions the abbey was completely pillaged, with the consequence that there are few treasures left.

[edit] Sights

The abbey is renowned for its location at the lake side. It overlooks Lake Zurich and the church is a listed building.

[edit] Activities

The nuns run a secondary boarding school for girls. Gardening takes a great deal of time because the land owned by the nunnery is considerable. The gardens are known for the herbal remedies grown.