Mount Zion Abbey

Mount Zion Abbey stands on a rocky elevation above Gaster valley, featuring a main building that expanded through multiple construction phases since 1761.

Priest Joseph Helg established the monastery in 1761, and three sisters from Schussenried Abbey in Germany arrived in 1766 to form the first community.

The monastery includes the Loretto Chapel, constructed between 1763 and 1765, and maintains connections with the Bishop of St. Gallen diocese.

The religious institution supported itself through farming activities and private donations, reaching a population of 52 sisters by the year 1778.

The abbey experienced a period of decline following the 1798 French invasion, when it lost numerous farms and had to provide accommodation for military troops.

Location: Gommiswald

Location: See-Gaster Constituency

Location: canton St. Gallen

Part of: list of cultural properties in Gommiswald

Address: Berg-Sion-Strasse, 8738 Uetliburg 8738 8738

GPS coordinates: 47.24230,9.01663

Latest update: April 1, 2025 05:56