Place of Pilgrimage
Einsiedeln is the oldest and most important place of pilgrimage in Switzerland. Its origins date back to the 11th century. During the Middle-Ages Einsiedeln was an important stop-over for the pilgrims on their way to Santiago de Compostela. The main focus of religious attraction is the Lady Chapel with the Black Madonna
In contrast to other Marian places of pilgrimage such as Lourdes and Fatima the pilgrimage takes place in small groups and remains largely unnoticed by other visitors.
The daily highlight is the Salve Regina: Following the Gregorian Vesper at 4:30 p.m., the monks pass to the Lady Chapel in a solemn procession and sing the four-chant Salve Regina - a tradition that goes back to the middle of the 16th century.
The annual highlight is the Miraculous Consecration on September 14th. The abbey and parts of the town are illuminated by candles and the pilgrims, holding candle-lights, march in a procession around the abbey square.