Einsiedeln is the most significant place of pilgrimage dedicated to the Virgin Mary in Switzerland. The high valley of Einsiedeln nestles in the heart of Central Switzerland and is marked by moorland and lovely Lake Sihl, the largest Swiss reservoir in terms of area. The picturesque small town boasts a Mineral Museum and Gingerbread Museum as well as a 100-metre-long panorama painting of the crucifixion of Christ dating from the 19th century.
The proud centrepiece of Einsiedeln and the goal of countless pilgrims is the imposing 18th century baroque monastery. The Benedictine monastery can look back on over 1000 years of history. Since the Middle Ages, Einsiedeln with its famous "Black Madonna" has been one of Europe’s leading places of pilgrimage. The St. James Path runs through the Einsiedeln area and many former pilgrims' hostels have now become hotels for holidaymakers and pilgrims.
The recently built Einsiedeln ski jumps seen in the lower photographs can be used for training and competitions in both summer and winter.