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.